For many people, Bulletin Board Systems (BBSes) are a piece of computing history.
For others, they are still very much alive.
In 2026, connecting to a BBS is easier than it was in the 1990s — but it looks a little different. You no longer need a dedicated phone line, but you do still need the right software and a basic understanding of how BBSes work.
This guide explains the modern ways to connect to a BBS, whether you’re using a contemporary PC, a classic machine, or real analog hardware.
What You Need
At a minimum, you need:
- A terminal program
- A way to connect:
- Telnet (most common)
- Or a real modem (for dial-up)
Everything else is optional.
What Is a Terminal Program?
A terminal program is software that:
- Displays text-mode screens
- Sends keyboard input
- Handles modem or network connections
- Emulates classic terminals (ANSI, PETSCII, VT100, etc.)
This is the modern replacement for what DOS users once knew as:
- Telix
- ProComm
- Qmodem
Today’s terminal programs typically support Telnet, and many also support real serial modems.
Two Ways to Connect to a BBS Today
Option 1: Telnet (Most Common)
Telnet is the easiest way to get started.
Instead of dialing a phone number, you connect to:
- A hostname or IP address
- A TCP port (usually 23 or 2323)
Example:
bbs.example.com:23
From the BBS’s perspective, Telnet behaves much like a modem connection — just faster and more reliable.
Most active BBSes today support Telnet.
Option 2: Real Modem (Yes, Really)
Some BBSes still accept actual dial-up calls.
This may involve:
- An analog phone line
- A VoIP-to-analog gateway
- Or a SIP/VoIP modem bridge
You’ll need:
- A physical modem
- A serial or USB-to-serial adapter
- A terminal program configured for modem use
This option is slower, more complex, and far more authentic.
Analog Node strongly approves.
Choosing a Terminal Program
The right terminal program depends on your platform.
Modern Systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
- SyncTERM – Actively developed, highly recommended
- NetRunner – Lightweight and straightforward
Classic Systems
- NComm – Popular on the Amiga
- Term – Classic Amiga terminal software
Each program has its own setup process, configuration screens, and quirks.
Detailed HOWTOs (Recommended)
Start with one of the guides below, depending on your system:
- HOWTO: Connect to a BBS Using SyncTERM
- HOWTO: Connect to a BBS Using NetRunner
- HOWTO: Connect to a BBS Using NComm (Amiga)
- HOWTO: Connect to a BBS Using Term (Amiga)
Each guide walks through:
- Installation
- Configuration
- Connecting via Telnet
- (Where applicable) configuring a real modem
Telnet vs Modem: Which Should You Use?
| Feature | Telnet | Real Modem |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of setup | Easy | Advanced |
| Speed | Fast | Slow |
| Hardware required | None | Modem + serial |
| Authenticity | Medium | Maximum |
| Availability | Very high | Limited |
If you’re new:
➡️ Start with Telnet
If you’re here for the experience:
➡️ Use a modem
Final Notes
BBSes in 2026 exist in a hybrid world:
- Old protocols
- New infrastructure
- Dedicated sysops keeping systems alive
Whether you connect via fiber or copper, the experience remains uniquely text-based, personal, and deliberate.
That’s the point.
— Analog Node