Nostalgia for Usenet: What I Miss and What Was Bad

Usenet, the digital Forum of the Past, is a topic that stirs up a mix of fond memories and bitter nostalgia. As the internet has evolved, Usenet has faded into the background, but its impact on the way we communicate and share information remains clear. This article delves into the reasons why I often find myself reminiscing about Usenet and the aspects that were less favorable compared to today's online forums.

What I Miss About Usenet

The first thing that comes to mind when I think about what I miss is the sense of community and the quality of discussions that dominated these forums. Unlike today, when numerous platforms—whether it's Reddit, Discord, or specialized forums—offer discussions on similar topics, Usenet was a more specialized space. For instance, if you were interested in computer role-playing games, you would find yourself in just a handful of groups, each dedicated to a particular game or genre. This made it easier to find high-quality conversations and the right group to participate in.

Before Eternal September, the early days of Usenet were a haven for enthusiasts and experts in various fields. Groups like or thrived with knowledgeable individuals sharing insights and helping each other. The camaraderie and the sense of being in a community with people who share your interest is something that online platforms struggle to replicate, even today.

Usenet's Usability and Influence on Communication Skills

Usenet's usability was unparalleled. It was not just a place where people gathered; it was a school for communication. I learned to write decent English, and the stark difference between my early posts and anything I wrote a decade later is a testament to the influence Usenet had on my writing skills. The formality, the clarity of thought, and the ability to articulate complex ideas were all honed through years of posting in Usenet groups.

In addition to the quality of communication, Usenet taught me valuable lessons in digital etiquette and the importance of constructive debate. Despite the occasional flame wars, such as the legendary Battlecruiser 3000AD flamewar, the groups were generally civilized spaces for discussion. The instances of harsh criticism or flame wars were few and far between, making Usenet a valuable learning ground.

Why I Stayed on Usenet

After experiencing the benefits of Usenet, I was reluctant to move to web forums. The usability and ease of navigation in Usenet were a significant draw. It was straightforward to find relevant information and contribute to discussions, whereas web forums often had a more fragmented and less organized approach. The local server model used by Usenet meant that much of the content was freely available, allowing anyone with internet access to join the discussion.

What Was Bad About Usenet

While Usenet had many positive aspects, it certainly had its drawbacks. One of the criticisms was the way messages were downloaded to your local server, subject to the discretion of your administrator. This meant that not all groups were accessible, and some, like binary groups, were sometimes restricted. Additionally, the lack of privacy and the constant monitoring by administrators were considerations that made some users hesitant to participate fully.

Another aspect that was less favorable was the presence of bizarre groups with off-topic conversations. While the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) became a popular feature to address repetitive questions, sometimes the repeated exchanges did get a little tedious. However, this feature also served as a guide for newcomers, ensuring that basic questions were addressed upfront.

Despite the drawbacks, Usenet is a relic of an era where the internet was less cluttered and more focused. It can be argued that even the bad things about Usenet were not that bad, considering the level of disruption and complexity that has come with modern internet platforms.

In conclusion, Usenet remains a cherished memory for those who experienced its golden years. While the platform has its shortcomings, the sense of community and the quality of discussions are qualities that continue to be the envy of modern forums. As we look at the evolution of the internet, it is essential to appreciate the simpler times of Usenet and the role it played in shaping digital communication.