We at TigerUsenet understand that those who are just beginning to use Usenet may be intimitaded with all of the technical language that comes along with describing Usenet access services. We’ve decided to define some of these in lamans terms to gain some better understanding of what they mean and what they are.

What is Usenet Retention?

As multiple messages are posted every single second to different newsgroups, the amount of time that an original message stays on the servers and the newsgroup is dependent on the allocation that the Usenet Providers servers can maintain. When something is posted on to a Newsgroup, the message is kept for as long as the servers that Usenet provider can allocate. Therefore, after an x amount of days, the message will be dropped in order to make room for new messages. Typically, for text messages, as they are much, much smaller than binaries – have a much longer lifespan than binary messages.

What is SSL Enryption?

When you are accessing Usenet through your Newsreader, many times the traffic is sent in the clear between your computer and the Usenet Providers servers. This includes the articles and messages that you are downloading or viewing. With SSL Encryption, the messages are kept private by “encrypting” the messages in order for them to remain private. This encryption process allows you to access any newsgroup with the reassurance that your actions are not monitored. Most reputable newsreaders, such as Newsrover, support SSL encrypted connections.

What’s the difference in Speed from one provider to another?

Mostly, the defining difference in speed is where the Usenet Providers’ servers are located. The speed in which you are able to download informaiton is dictated primarily by your ISP. However, if the servers of the Usenet Provider is located a great distance away from your location, the speed in which you are able to access newsgroups may be much slower than what should be expected. For instance, if you live in the United States, but use a Usenet Provider that has servers only in Amsterdamn, they your speed will suffer. To ensure that you are getting the fastest speed possible,  you should consider checking the servers locations with the Usenet Provider to see how well it will work with your location. TigerUsenet is proud to offer Usenet access to both the United States and throughout Europe with servers in each areas.

Stay tuned for other tips and tricks regarding Usenet.