Netlog

European Social Networking Platform

Published 04/30/2012 and rated 4 out of 5 stars
by AppAppeal Editor

Netlog is a social networking website intended for younger people in Europe. Users can create a profile and add photos, blogs and guest books. Just like other social networking websites, users can add friends and follow one another. Users can also add events, music and video clips to their Netlog profiles. Further customization is offered through the site’s library of professionally designed profile skins. Users can connect with people they know and meet new friends through shared interests and mutual acquaintances.

Netlog also provides privacy settings, advanced inbox tools and visitor statistics so users can monitor activity on their profiles. A handful of convenient Netlog-related extras are also available to download, including the uploader which allows for quick picture and video uploading and the Netlog 24 desktop application.

Netlog was founded in March of 2003 by Lorenz Bogaert and Toon Coppens. The application has gone by different names, including Facebox and Bingbox. Netlog grew rapidly, expanding to include approximately 28 million members by 2007. Recent counts place the Netlog community at around 84 million users that speak 25 different languages.

The current version includes a variety of attractive tools that let users personalize their profiles and share updates and events with friends.

Netlog offers a variety of appealing features that are very similar to other social networking websites. The main difference is the community. Netlog focuses on young people in European countries. The site provides little in the way of cutting edge features. Users can update their blog, post pictures and videos and send messages back and forth. Mobile versions of the application are also available, however this is another feature that most major social networks also provide.

Netlog has a very stylish, relaxed look that favors black, white and hints of red. The design doesn’t intimidate the user. The profiles look well-organized and include a large image with thumbnail images as well as information about the user and clean menus that make it easier to manage content. Netlog offers a user friendly experience that lets each individual display as much or as little detail about their personal lives as they like.

A new user can join the Netlog community by clicking the blue “Register Now!” link positioned at the top, center of the homepage. The registration form on the next page asks for an email address, first and last name, gender, date of birth, password and optional city. After submitting the form and entering the verification code, the user is advised that they must check their email inbox for a confirmation message. This must be accessed to complete registration.

Anyone can stop by the Netlog website and create an account for free. There are no subscription fees and all users are given access to the same features. Free is definitely the best way to go for social networks like Netlog. It allows them to encourage new membership while offering a good value to users. The features offered by Netlog are not terribly unique and are very similar to those offered by other networks that provide free access to everyone.

Netlog is ideal for young people in European countries. The community is focused on that demographic, however the registration process allows anyone to join. Users can build and customize their profiles with skins and content. Images, videos and other content can be added to create a personal space that matches the user’s lifestyle and preferences. Users can also manage privacy settings to decide who can see their profile content.

• Blogs let users share their thoughts, ideas and opinions
• Images and videos give users more ways to customize their profiles
• Skins let users change the design and style of their profile
• Users can message one another or post updates
• Browser based games provide additional entertainment options
• Groups can be created and joined
• Privacy settings gives users control over their profiles