Backbones

A Usenet backbone refers to the server farms operated by Tier-1 Usenet providers, which peer and exchange data feeds to ensure that all backbones receive the same. They then each store the content until it is deleted. These backbones handle vast amounts of data, with around 475 TiB uploaded daily, and are expensive to maintain. Since most smaller providers can't afford to operate their own backbone, they lease access to these networks from the backbone operators and resell access to end-users.

Check out the Usenet Tree for a visual map of Usenet providers and resellers.

Eweka, Omicron, and Base IP are owned by Omicron Media, but each provider operates differently when it comes to server locations.

• Omicron operates servers in both the US and the Netherlands, though some providers are limited to accessing only the NL servers.
• Eweka and Base IP each have their own backbone, located in the Netherlands.

For other backbones:

• Giganews and NetNews operate servers around the world.
• UsenetExpress and Abavia operate servers in both the US and the Netherlands.
• Its Hosted, and Uzo Reto each operate servers exclusively in the Netherlands.

When choosing a Usenet provider, consider the location of their servers. Providers with servers closer to your location can offer faster download speeds and reduced latency.