How to Choose a USENET Newsreader

In order to fully utilize the USENET you will need a newsreader. It is the newsreader that will let you download and read files. You do need a newsreader the same way that you need a browser in order to access the internet. Basically, the newsreader is an application program that allows you to read and download files.

Different newsreaders have different features so it is a good idea to compare the different ones on offer and have an idea of what it is that you want from your newsreader in order to choose the right one for you.

Some of the features that you will absolutely need from a newsreader are:

NZB File Support - You will need a newsreader that will support NZB files. As all download files are now in NZB format, then this is an absolute necessity if you want to download any files, which you definitely will. There is really no point in paying for a newsreader that does not support NZB file download.

yEnc Support - There really is no need for you to understand yEnc, as it is a very old system that you do not need to understand in order to use it. You do however need to have a newsreader that will be compatible with yEnc.

SSL Support - SSL is a security feature that you will need. It is always good to keep your privacy on the USENET, but it will also keep your download rates low as it will hide this from your ISP. Some providers will raise your tariff if they see you are downloading more files, so SSL will help stop this from happening. 
These features above are absolutely essential in your selection of a USENET newsreader.

You should not pay for a newsreader that is missing any of these capabilities. Some other features that are not essential but would be advantageous to have are listed below:

Automatic Extraction of Binaries - Par and rar files are common, and to have a newsreader that can automatically unpackage these files for you will be useful. If you don't have a newsreader that does it automatically it is not the end of the world, but it does mean that you will have to do this manually.

USENET Search feature - This one speaks for itself. A search facility will greatly help when you are looking for specific files and information.

Thumbnail Preview on Images - It is a nifty little feature if you are able to get this one on your newsreader.

There is a great deal of newsreaders out there and you should really start off with the best one for your needs. Make sure you read and compare the facilities offered on the newsreader before you sign up for a premium paying service.

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