A Bulletin Board System (BBS) is a computer server running software that allows users to connect using a terminal program. Once logged in, users can upload and download files, read news, and exchange messages. These systems formed the backbone of early online communities before the mainstream adoption of the internet, relying heavily on direct dial-up links through local telephone lines.
I used to run a two-line BBS out of my bedroom so people could download shareware.
Also heard as
- bulletin board system
- bulletin board service
Related terms
Dial-around
A telecom service accessed by dialing a specific prefix to bypass the default long-distance carrier.
POTS
Plain old telephone service is the traditional analog voice transmission network using copper wires.
Remote access
The ability to connect to and control a computer network or system from an off-site location.