The BBS Corner - BBS Message and Game Networks
Long before the Internet, there were "networks" that were
formed to transfer messages between BBS systems. Later these networks were
augmented to also transfer shareware files and even Inter-BBS door game
files.
Prior to the Internet,
messages and files were transferred from one BBS to another via a dial-up modem
system, but in recent years are now using the Internet. This section will
discuss modern-day BBS networks, the transfer mechanisms and a listing of
available BBS networks that BBS sysops can belong to.
Fidonet BBS Network
The Fidonet BBS Network has been around for well over 25 years. It is the
first worldwide BBS network and is still in service today. Originally a
point-to-point BBS network via dial-up modems, Fidonet has transformed via
modern Internet protocols to transfer message and file data in near-real time to
various hubs around the world.
Further Info: The Fidonet BBS
Network
Other BBS Networks
The following is a list of various BBS networks available for BBS Sysops to join. The vast majority of these use the Fidonet Technology Network (FTN) as the basis for message handling, which means that it is compatible with most BBS software. Other methods include QWK message transfer which is used by some BBS systems (such as Synchronet and WWIV). If you operate a BBS Network and don't see yours listed, please Contact Us and ask that we add it to our list!
DogNet
Inter-BBS gaming. Uses InternetRex
for file transfers.
Site Last Updated: unknown
DoveNet
The official BBS network for Synchronet BBS
systems. It is not limited to Synchronet, as any BBS that can
support QWK messaging can subscribe.
Site Last Updated: 2009
FamilyNet International
Home to FamilyNet, a Christian BBS network.
Site Last Updated: unknown
GatorNet
Huge echo base, Lots of Games, File Bone and more. Apply online or download gatorpak.zip and fill out the app and mail it in.
Site Last Updated: 2011
ILink International Echomail Network
ILink is the first QWK mail network. Our internationally recognized BBSs exchange mail in more than 200 conferences on a regular basis,
facilitating communication between the users of these globally-scattered systems. Thousands of messages are moved by the network every
month, in conferences ranging from chitchat to vendor support for software or hardware products.
Site Last Updated: unknown
Intelec Echomail Network
A large echomail network started in September 1989.
Site Last Updated: 2001
Inter-BBS League 65
League 65 has a number of Solaria Inter-BBS games (BRE, FE, TAL) as well as LordNet, Chain Reaction, Word Warp
and others.
Site Last Updated: Feb. 2008
JustaXnet International
JustaXnet is a small BBS Network compared to some, but we have a great time none the less. We have boards
connected through out North America, Europe, Australia, Asia and the Middle East and we're still growing.
Besides direct land line connections, we also offer mail via FTP and Transx (Email attach) for those systems
that support that mode of mail transfer. This keeps mail costs low and mail traffic high. We are a great
network, free, promote BBS'n and have a lot of fun in the process.
Site Last Updated: Jan. 2009
Micronet
Micronet Information Network (Micronet) was founded by Sean Dennis in September 2000, as an alternative to other BBS mail networks. In Micronet, we try to keep it small, friendly and something you'll enjoy participating in. We're always looking for more systems and people to participate! There's something for everyone in Micronet. The focus in Micronet is the quality of mail, not necessarily the quantity. The signal-to-noise ratio is quite good and we intend to keep it that way.
Site Last Updated:
Orthodox Christian Network (OCNet)
OCNet is a network of BBS conferences for Orthodox Christians that was started by Fr George Masters and Frank
Crispell in California, USA. It is now linked to the FamilyNet BBS network and distributed around the world
using Fido Technology and the Internet.
Site Last Updated: Aug. 2001
Politically Incorrect Network
The Politically Incorrect Net is a mail network dedicated to politics, both correct and otherwise. While many
mail networks have a few conferences for discussing politics, the entire idea behind The Politically Incorrect
Net is to discuss issues that have always been, or suddenly become political.
Site Last Updated: May 2003
ToadNet International
Toadnet offers Sysops and Users: Access to the newest Shareware files via our Toadnet File Bone. Access to
International Message Areas including Computing support, Chat echo's and more! Easy mail transfers via our FTP
site. InterBBS games such as BRE. We now feature Internet routing of game packets! Internet E-mail accounts for
a small fee. Too much more to list!
Site Last Updated: 2008
Trans-Canada Network
TCnet is Canada's Community Oriented message network and open to any board based in Canada. It's available via
direct connect, TransX and other internet mods of exchange.
Site Last Updated: May 1999
Wildcat Support Network
A New Wildcat Support Network is Online! Due to several requests we have started a Wildcat support Network.
This network is for Wildcat 4 and Wildcat 5/6 (WINServer) sysops. All Wildcat Sysops are welcome and encouraged
to join WSN. Wildcat Support Network has a committee that consists of 3 people, so all requests are to be voted
on. There will be no major decisions made by 1 person.
Site Last Updated: 2011
Wildnet International BBS Network (Fanciful Online)
Wildnet is a large and active echomail system with over 100 different message echos. Feeds are available in a
variety of formats and you can choose which hub you wish to use.
Site Last Updated: 1998
ZeroNet
The Zero Network came about from frequent discussion about the loss of an underground BBS scene. The zero
network is only interested in good quality underground bulletin board systems. You will find intelligent
discussion based around the art scene, the BBS scene and the h/p underground. Zeronet is also the official
network of Damage, Inc.
Site Last Updated: 2003