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Usenet
newsreaders

A newsreader is the app you use to open Usenet. The right one depends on whether you want to follow discussions or download with NZB files.

The app and the access service do different jobs.

Your newsreader handles what you see and do. Ngroups supplies the server connection that lets the app reach Usenet.

Start with What is Usenet?

Start with what you want to do

There is no single best newsreader. Choose the type that matches the way you plan to use Usenet.

Read and join discussions

Choose a text newsreader when you want to browse newsgroups, follow conversations, and publish replies.

Start with Thunderbird

Download with NZB files

Choose an NZB downloader when you want the app to retrieve file parts and handle verification and extraction.

Choose SABnzbd or NZBGet

Three familiar options

These apps cover the two common Usenet workflows without pretending that one choice fits everyone.

NZB downloader

SABnzbd

A browser-based option designed to make NZB downloading straightforward.

Best when
An approachable interface with automated verification, repair, and extraction.
Availability
Windows, macOS, Unix, and many NAS devices
Visit SABnzbd
NZB downloader

NZBGet

A configurable downloader built for high performance and low resource use.

Best when
Always-on computers, NAS devices, containers, and detailed queue or script control.
Availability
Windows, macOS, Linux, NAS, and Docker
Visit NZBGet
Text newsreader

Thunderbird

A desktop app for reading and writing traditional Usenet discussions.

Best when
Browsing groups and following threaded conversations instead of automating NZB downloads.
Availability
Reads from and writes to NNTP newsgroups
Read Thunderbird's guide

Connect any compatible app

Use the exact connection values shown in your dashboard. The website login and newsreader login serve different purposes.

  1. 01

    Choose the app

    Pick a text newsreader or NZB downloader based on what you want to do.

  2. 02

    Open your dashboard

    Find the server address and newsreader login details supplied to your account.

  3. 03

    Enter the settings

    Add the exact provider settings from the dashboard to the app you selected.

  4. 04

    Test the connection

    Connect, then browse available groups or import an NZB file for your chosen workflow.

Four terms that are easy to mix up

Newsreader
The app that connects to Usenet. It can focus on discussions, NZB downloads, or both.
NZB
A small file containing references that tell an NZB downloader which Usenet posts to retrieve.
Indexer
A separate search service that can help you find posts and obtain NZB files. It is not your Usenet provider.
NNTP
The connection method used between a newsreader and a Usenet server.