FidoNet is a worldwide computer network that is used for communication between Fidonet systems which are maintained by sysops (system operators). FidoNet was originally founded as a non-commercial network in 1984 by Tom Jenning as a means to network BBSes that used his own "Fido" BBS software. Over time, other BBS software was independently adapted to support the relevant FidoNet protocols and the network became a popular means for computer users to communicate.