Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Usenet

Usenet is a worldwide distributed discussion system that predates the modern web. Created in 1980, it consists of thousands of newsgroups organised by topic where users can post messages and files. Think of it as a massive collection of forums covering every conceivable subject, from technical discussions to hobby groups.

Usenet operates on a client-server model where messages and files are distributed across thousands of servers worldwide. When you post something, it propagates to other servers, creating a decentralised network. Users connect to Usenet servers (called NNTP servers) using specialised software to browse newsgroups and download content.

Yes, you need a Usenet client (newsreader) to access Usenet. Popular options include:

Free Options:
  • Thunderbird
  • Pan
  • Forte Agent (free version)
Paid Options:
  • SABnzbd
  • NZBGet
  • Newsbin Pro
  • Forte Agent Pro

You'll also need an account with a Usenet service provider (USP) that gives you access to their servers. Some providers offer web-based interfaces as well.

Absolutely not. While Usenet has gained notoriety for file sharing, it hosts thousands of legitimate discussion groups covering:

  • Technical support and programming
  • Academic discussions
  • Hobby communities (photography, cooking, crafts)
  • News and current events
  • Literature and book discussions
  • Scientific research collaboration
  • Open source software distribution

Usenet access typically costs between £5-15 per month, depending on the provider and plan. Factors affecting price include:

  • Download speed limits
  • Data retention (how long files are kept)
  • Number of simultaneous connections
  • SSL encryption
  • Customer support quality

Some providers offer block accounts (pay-per-GB) instead of monthly unlimited plans.

Newsgroups are topic-specific forums within Usenet, organised in a hierarchical naming system. Examples include:

  • comp.lang.python - Python programming discussions
  • rec.food.cooking - Cooking and recipes
  • sci.physics - Physics discussions
  • alt.binaries.movies - Movie file sharing
  • talk.politics.misc - Political discussions

There are over 100,000 newsgroups covering virtually every topic imaginable.

NZB is a file format that contains metadata about files posted to Usenet. Instead of manually searching through newsgroups, NZB files tell your client exactly where to find and how to download specific content. Think of NZBs as "maps" that make finding content much easier and faster.

Usenet typically offers much faster download speeds than torrents because:

  • You download directly from servers (no peer dependency)
  • Multiple simultaneous connections are possible
  • No upload requirements
  • Downloads often max out your internet connection

Most users achieve their full bandwidth capacity when downloading from quality Usenet providers.

Usenet offers better privacy than many alternatives:

  • No IP address sharing with other users
  • SSL encryption available with most providers
  • No tracking of download ratios
  • Less monitoring than public torrents

However, it's not completely anonymous - your provider knows what you download. For maximum privacy, some users combine Usenet with VPN services.

Retention varies by provider, typically ranging from 1,000 to 5,000+ days. Higher retention means older content remains available longer. Binary retention (files) is usually shorter than text retention (discussions). Premium providers often offer longer retention as a selling point.

Usenet advantages:
  • Faster, more consistent speeds
  • No seeding requirements
  • Better privacy (no peer connections)
  • More reliable downloads
  • Less likely to be monitored
Torrent advantages:
  • Usually free
  • Larger selection for some content types
  • Built-in community ratings/comments
  • No monthly fees

Getting started involves three steps:

  1. Choose a Usenet provider - Research providers based on retention, speed, and price
  2. Select a newsreader - Download client software compatible with your operating system
  3. Configure your setup - Enter your provider's server details into your newsreader

Many providers offer free trials, and some newsreaders have built-in search capabilities to help beginners navigate the system more easily.