Launch of BBC Networking Club

The BBC's first co-ordinated effort on the internet began with the launch of the BBC Networking Club on 11 April 1994 and the supporting television programme The Net. The aim was to demystify the information superhighway - still a novelty for most of the population - and offer access to the internet.

In the first instance this meant the opening of the BBC bulletin board Auntie, to encourage feedback about BBC programmes. Because of the need to make the software clear to non-technical users, the Club's plan to provide direct internet access was delayed until August.

The first episode of The Net gave an idea of how new the online world was in 1994. Davey Winder explained that all that was needed to access the internet was a home computer, modem, phone line and the relevant software. The sound of a dial-up connection was heard. There were also stories on German Neo-Nazis use of the web and on music for video games by Thomas Dolby.

The Networking Club closed at the end of 1995 but the BBC online presence continued to grow as programme makers saw the potential for interaction with audiences. The service consolidated with the launch of bbc.co.uk in 2004 and today is among the most popular and trusted websites.