They work through people posting messages, which are organised into discussion topics - or 'threads'. A message can be a reply within an existing discussion, or the start of a new one.
Topics are as diverse as music to lifestyle, and current affairs to science fiction.
Some of the questions commonly asked about forums and newsgroups are answered below. To reach the answer you need, click on the appropriate question below or scroll through the list of questions and answers underneath. See the Help menu in Outlook Express for more help using your newsgroup software. Newsgroups are more numerous than forums but require special newsreader software such as Outlook Express to use them. All LineOne forums are available as newsgroups at bbs.lineone.net .