CompuServe was an early commercial online service that was widely popular in the 1980s and 1990s. It was founded in 1969 as a computer timesharing service, primarily catering to businesses and universities. CompuServe played a significant role in the development of online communication, providing access to a variety of online forums known as "special interest groups" (SIGs) where users could discuss various topics, such as technology, gaming, and hobbies.
In its prime, CompuServe had a substantial user base and offered a range of features and services, including email, file transfer, news, weather updates, stock quotes, and online chat. It was one of the first services to introduce graphical user interfaces and multimedia capabilities, allowing users to view images and participate in online gaming.
CompuServe's proprietary software, known as the CompuServe Information Manager, allowed users to navigate through the various features and areas of the service. It utilized a command-driven interface, where users entered commands to perform desired actions.
Despite its early success and contributions to the online landscape, CompuServe's popularity declined with the emergence of the World Wide Web and more accessible and affordable internet services. The service was eventually sold to AOL (America Online) in 1998, and its active operations were gradually phased out in subsequent years. Today, CompuServe is considered a historic landmark in the evolution of online communication and is often remembered for its pioneering contributions to the digital era.
