Eternal September
Also called the September that never ended, Eternal September refers to a time on the Internet with an influx of new users unfamiliar with its established netiquette. The term originated from a Usenet discussion group in September 1993.
Recently, Eternal September more broadly describes any online community or platform that experiences a jump in new users disrupting an established community. It highlights the challenge of maintaining a sense of community and order as online platforms grow and evolve.
Eternal September details
Before September 1993, Usenet, a decentralized system of discussion groups and bulletin boards, had a relatively small and close user base. New users often join in September, when colleges and universities begin, and give guidance to understand the community's conventions so they can acclimate properly.
However, in September 1993, AOL (America Online) began offering Usenet access to its subscriber base, increasing users unfamiliar with Usenet's customs. The user increase leads to disruptions, flame wars, and the general deterioration of the online community's culture. Further exacerbated by AOL releasing their Usenet gateway service the following spring, the phrase "Eternal September" was coined to describe this never-ending influx of new, inexperienced users.