Volume 7, Number 7 12 February 1990 +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | _ | | / \ | | /|oo \ | | - FidoNews - (_| /_) | | _`@/_ \ _ | | FidoNet (r) | | \ \\ | | International BBS Network | (*) | \ )) | | Newsletter ______ |__U__| / \// | | / FIDO \ _//|| _\ / | | (________) (_/(_|(____/ | | (jm) | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ Editor in Chief: Vince Perriello Editors Emeritii: Thom Henderson, Dale Lovell Chief Procrastinator Emeritus: Tom Jennings Copyright 1990, Fido Software. All rights reserved. Duplication and/or distribution permitted for noncommercial purposes only. For use in other circumstances, please contact Fido Software. FidoNews is published weekly by the System Operators of the FidoNet (r) International BBS Network. It is a compilation of individual articles contributed by their authors or authorized agents of the authors. The contribution of articles to this compilation does not diminish the rights of the authors. You are encouraged to submit articles for publication in FidoNews. Article submission standards are contained in the file ARTSPEC.DOC, available from node 1:1/1. 1:1/1 is a Continuous Mail system, available for network mail 24 hours a day. Fido and FidoNet are registered trademarks of Tom Jennings of Fido Software, Box 77731, San Francisco CA 94107, USA and are used with permission. Opinions expressed in FidoNews articles are those of the authors and are not necessarily those of the Editor or of Fido Software. Most articles are unsolicited. Our policy is to publish every responsible submission received. Table of Contents 1. ARTICLES ................................................. 1 A Coherent Look At Gateways .............................. 1 READIT! - Version 1.00 Release Information ............... 5 Announcing the VOLUNTEER echo ............................ 7 2. COLUMNS .................................................. 8 A View from the Bridge ................................... 8 3. LATEST VERSIONS .......................................... 10 Latest Software Versions ................................. 10 4. NOTICES .................................................. 13 The Interrupt Stack ...................................... 13 FidoNews 7-07 Page 1 12 Feb 1990 ================================================================= ARTICLES ================================================================= A Coherent Look At Gateways By: Jason Steck 1:104/424@FidoNet Over the past two or three years, many networks have sprung up based, to varying extents, on the FidoNet technical standards for session protocol and, more problematically, addressing. With the establishment of built-in support for zones in popular software, the so-called "OtherNets" experienced a population explosion both in number of nets and number of sysops belonging to them. The primary device used to create an OtherNet was, and is, the use of a unique zone number. FidoNet was already using zones 1-3 (and is now up to 5 with rumors of a 6), therefore OtherNets began utilizing zone numbers ranging from 7 (AlterNet) to the upper limit of the existing nodelist processors (99 -- EggNet). This upper limit now stands at 255 (internal QuickBBS limit) and is poised to move upward to Binkley's inherent limit of 4096. While there is obviously little danger of running out of zone numbers or even, with a modicum of coordination, the duplication of a zone among two networks, the "pseudo-zone" scheme of network creation fails badly when internetwork communication is desired. The purpose of this article is to address the previously proposed schemes in comparison to the gateway concept as introduced by FidoNet Gateway Policy and as in operation at UFGates around the world. Under a pseudo-zone scheme, a sysop in one network is often unable to respond to messages originating in another network. For example, let's say a sysop in the current zone 1-5 FidoNet receives a message from a node in zone 98. Chances are, the FidoNet sysop has no idea even what network zone 98 is, let alone how to respond. The sysop simply does not have, and could not get without significant and unnecessary investigation and effort, the zone 98 nodelist information. This problem is especially significant in the netmail response to echomail in which case both parties are likely to be unknown to each other and separated by large (and expensive) geographic distances. As the OtherNets have grown, a number of suggested solutions have been put forward. To wit: 1) Set up zonegates between FidoNet and the OtherNets. FidoNews 7-07 Page 2 12 Feb 1990 Rationale: With this system, no node number is truly unknwon so long at that network's number is unique and is listed in the FidoNet nodelist as a zonegate. For example, zone 98 mail could be sent to 1:1/98 for forwarding into Mil-Net (that's who it is, by the way). The zonegate, by being "known" to both networks, would function as the interface point. Disadvantages: First, there is a serious problem with cost. Why should a FidoNet sysop (me) in Denver wishing to contact an AlterNet node in Denver (say, Larry Kayser) be required to route through a zonegate in, say, New York (the likely site of such a zonegate)? Such a system is too limited in scope and rigid for internetwork operation. Zonegates are designed, and function quite well, as ocean-spanning cost savers. However, they are NOT designed to handle internetwork connectivity in cases where the two networks exist in the same broad geographic area. Secondly, a zonegate arrangement FORCES OtherNets to be dependant and parasitical on FidoNet. True independance is not possible when a network's communication depends entirely on the goodwill of ANOTHER network's nodelist prodcution and on the development of another network's technology base. A zonegate system, by its design, is OWNED by the administrators of the network where it is listed. A superior system would allow for internetwork implementations on a diversified, local sysop level rather than at the network administrative level. 2) Destroy OtherNets or cut them off from FidoNet Rationale: The rationale for this "solution" is based on two basic assumptions: First, that FidoNet is the "one true network" and that OtherNets are inherently parasitical. Historically, at least, this assumption has some basis in fact. FidoNet did exist FIRST in the amateur networking field and the OtherNets were dependant on FidoNet for maintainence of the technology base and, later, for echomail. The second assumption is that OtherNets are totally political "SchismNets" established solely as a reaction to personal or political problems in FidoNet. If both assumptions are accepted, then the "solution" becomes natural. Disadvantages: Obviously, both assumptions are not always true. However, the larger problem with this "solution" is the judgementalism inherent in it. The entire object of networking in the first place was to enhance communication. The above "solution" to the internetwork problem is somewhat understandable at times, but is ultimately counter to the entire spirit of FidoNet and networking in general as it seeks to LIMIT communications on the basis of some vague and subjective political or social judgement which is passed. With such a "Final Solution" to OtherNets, the debate leaves the technical realm of HOW to communicate and enters an unpleseant political realm where whole networks are condemned as criminals of a sort or are required to pass personal, social, or political muster with individual network administrators. FidoNews 7-07 Page 3 12 Feb 1990 Furthermore, in recent times, various OtherNets have begun to disprove the assumptions inherent in the above "solution". OtherNets have developed unique personalities and atmospheres in their own right, totally distinct from FidoNet. They have extended old technology and occasionally developed new standards and many have specifically endeavored to maintain friendly, rather than schismatic relations with FidoNet and its administrators. 3) Gateway Operations Advantages: Although often confused with zonegates, gateways operate quite differently and, ultimately, more powerfully than zonegates while allowing for internal sociopolitical independance not allowed by the "nuke 'em solution". Zonegates are limited by design to a single system at a single location. Gateways, on the other hand, can exist in many locations simultaneously, each serving a smaller, more managable area and providing local-call gateway access in more cases. This leads to a couple of major advantages over the zonegate solution: First, gateways are more reliable. If a zonegate system goes down, the link is cut. If a gateway system goes down, links only need to be switched to another, already operating, gateway to the same network. 2) Gateways are cheaper. A zonegate would only be a local call to the immediate area of its physical location. However, since gateway systems can be numerous and physically diversified, gateways would be local calls to every area they existed in. Where there is a need, there could be a gateway. People who would be long (expensive) distance to a zonegate would be able to call the gateway just down the road. A further advantage is technical. With a zonegate arrangement, the OtherNet is dependant on FidoNet technology. Under a gateway system, ONLY the gateway(s) need "speak the FidoNet language". In this way, the OtherNets are freed to pursue extensions to FTSC technology or to even abandon it altogether in favor of a totally different system while, at the same time, utilizing gateways as "translators" to ensure continued connectivity with the venerable FidoNet. While it may not idealize each individual set of preferences, prejudices, and opinions, the gateway option has clear technical and sociopolitical advantages over the more expensive and draconian "solutions" previously proposed. Additionally, it is a supremely valid compromise to a seemingly endless quagmire of internetwork political warfare over the "ownership" of communications mediums and over the viability or status of various networks or their internal administrative techniques. Instead of arguing over "who's show is better" in a futile attempt to hash out a uniform set of internal "rules" for all networks, the gateway solution allows each network to develop and maintain a unique identity without having to undergo judgement from another network and without having to reduce or eliminate connectivity options. The simple maxim of the gateway is: "When in Rome, speak Latin". Quite simply, messages in FidoNet have FidoNet addressability and obey FidoNews 7-07 Page 4 12 Feb 1990 FidoNet technical standards. Similarly, messages in another network follow THAT network's technical and addressing standards. A properly implemented gateway system will act as a bridge, not a barrier, between networks. And, as such, organizations (such as the FreeNet Project -- you didn't think you'd get away without a plug, did you?) and individuals interested in expanding network communications should at least welcome the gateway concept and work towards its successful establishment in FidoNet and elsewhere. (For more information on the FreeNet Project, feel free to contact me by netmail at 1:104/424@FidoNet. A future FidoNews article will introduce the FNP and cover some gateway procedures.) ----------------------------------------------------------------- FidoNews 7-07 Page 5 12 Feb 1990 Bill Brendel 1:19/210 READIT! - The Nodelist Analyzer and Search Utility READIT! Version 1.00 is a totally rewritten, newly formatted version of the original Nodelist Search/Browse Utility. It is a comprehensive, fast nodelist analyzer with multiple search and match options. Sysop names are searched and matched via a separate compiled sysop name file. Version 1.00 has some exciting new features and dramatically increased search speed over all previous releases. READIT! is being released as three different programs for use with the more common nodelist structures. 1) READIT_6! is designed to use pre-compiled "Version 6" Nodelists (Nodelist.Idx and Nodelist.dat) commonly used with BinkleyTerm and OPUS 1.10. 2) READIT_5! supports "Version 5" nodelists used with OPUS 1.03b (Nodelist.Idx and Nodelist.Sys). 3) READ_DOG! searches and analyzes SEAdog(tm)-style nodelists. READIT! allows the Sysop to search nodelists with a variety of keys, such as Sysop name, BBS name, Cities/States, Regions, Hosts, individual nodes (and zone-sensitive information with READIT_6!). Categorization of the nodelist by Region, Net (and Zone, where applicable) is available through separate functions. A new option allows simple nodelist editing giving the sysop the ability to quickly update node information (node name, phone number, continuous mail flag, password, etc...) without having to recompile the nodelist. Results may be saved as commented disk files or sent to printer output. The three versions of READIT! may be found on the SDS nodes or directly from 1:19/210 or 7:764/2036 under the following names: READIT_6.ZIP ==> Version 6 nodelists (OPUS 1.10 and BT) READIT_5.ZIP ==> Version 5 nodelists (OPUS 1.03b and BT) READ_DOG.ZIP ==> SEAdog-style nodelists (SEAdog and TBBS) File requests and update are available from 1:19/210 or 7:764/2036 under the following magic-filenames: READIT6 ==> READIT_6.ZIP FidoNews 7-07 Page 6 12 Feb 1990 READIT5 ==> READIT_5.ZIP READDOG ==> READ_DOG.ZIP READIT! is released as shareware. ----------------------------------------------------------------- FidoNews 7-07 Page 7 12 Feb 1990 Ralph Merritt, 1:269/111 ANNOUNCING THE VOLUNTEER ECHO Intro ----- VOLUNTEER is a new echo which for the dissemination of information related to volunteer work. The scope of this echo will cover Federal, State, County, Local, Public and Private volunteer work (basically any volunteer work). If you have time to volunteer, hopefully this echo will help you find an organization to assist. If you are a volunteer, you can share your knowledge with readers of this echo. If you are not a volunteer, hopefully this echo will provide a level of awareness and insight regarding volunteer work. Backround --------- What made me form this echo? Well, perhaps it can be called a case of self-realization. In my family, my sister is a volunteer member of our town's First Aid Squad, and besides riding calls she teaches CPR and keeps the squad's books; my father volunteers his time as a hunter safety instructor and keeps our church's books; my mother works the information desk as a volunteer at the local hospital; my brother just joined the First Aid Squad and has been active in many of the service clubs in High School and church. What do I do as a volunteer? Nothing. Something I hope to correct shortly. Many of us receive so much, but don't return much. So as I educate myself on volunteer work and find some organization that can put up with me for my free time, I'd like to share the informa- tion I gather with the Fidonet network through the echomail media. Initial Availability -------------------- VOLUNTEER will initially be available for linkage via. 1:269/111; this system, which I sysop, is mail-only, running Front Door (I am using the "old" version that supports SEAlink), with a 9600 HST modem, open 24 hours a day. Hopefully volume will rise to a level that enables this echo to be carried on the Fidonet backbone. As a side note, although as of now I am not PC-Pursuitable, I am moving in March 1990 and the new phone number (as of NODELIST.068) will be accessible via. PC Pursuit (my node address will NOT change). Questions, comments, requests for linkages, co-moderators, volunteers, et. al. welcome of course. I can be reached at 1:269/111, 6:6001/5, 7:520/953 or 99:9220/202. ----------------------------------------------------------------- FidoNews 7-07 Page 8 12 Feb 1990 ================================================================= COLUMNS ================================================================= A View from the Bridge Phil Buonomo, 1:107/583 "Captain's Log, Stardate 9002.10" Howdy. I was going to parody an Andy Rooney column this week, but considering the trouble he's been in recently, I guess I'll skip it. Do you ever wonder why some celebrities keep getting caught with their foot in their mouth? I do. I mean, does it taste good to them, or something? ;-) I'd like to talk a little about internetwork messaging. It seems that there's been a lot of hullabaloo about all this since the first 'alternate' network popped up. Sysops tend to be a very over protective breed about their network, their bbs software, their unpacker, their front end mailer... Unfortunately, this all means that we talk a lot less to each other. ("You're not in my nodelist, therefore you don't exist. POOF!") This is just plain silly. Now, it seems like 2 or 3 guys 'at the top' want to see this document put in place for FidoNet. I asks meself, "Self... why is this necessary?" You know what? I couldn't find an answer. There aren't tons of dupes coming thru the echo feeds. No one seems to be dumping tons of netmail on the gateways, so WHY all this nonsense about signing agreements, and stuff? If the messages aren't compatible, the software won't pass them on, so what's the big deal? I think it has to do with "CONTROL". Well, anyway, this document is supposed to be "put up to a vote". A vote of who? Are you and I going to vote on it? Don't bet on it. IFNA was probably the last chance on getting any sort of legitimate democracy put in place in this network, and you can kiss that goodbye. (Whatever happened to Jason Steck, anyway? He had a proposal "all set" to go in place on 12/3/89. Maybe he sent it thru one of those gateways the document talks about, and it got deleted 'cause the gate didn't like his looks?) Well, I just don't think its necessary, so I'm sure *I* won't have a say in whether we put it in place or not. BTW, just for the record, NO, I don't hang up on someone because they're not in my network. That's the same as hanging up on someone because they're black, jewish, gay, or poor, no matter what anybody else says. Private clubs are a thing of the past. FidoNews 7-07 Page 9 12 Feb 1990 ----------------------------------------------------------------- FidoNews 7-07 Page 10 12 Feb 1990 ================================================================= LATEST VERSIONS ================================================================= Latest Software Versions MS-DOS Systems -------------- Bulletin Board Software Name Version Name Version Name Version Fido 12q+ Phoenix 1.3 TBBS 2.1 Lynx 1.30 QuickBBS 2.61* TComm/TCommNet 3.4 Kitten 2.16 RBBS 17.2B TPBoard 6.0 Opus 1.03c+ RBBSmail 17.2 Wildcat! 2.10* TAG 2.5d1* Network Node List Other Mailers Version Utilities Version Utilities Version BinkleyTerm 2.30 EditNL 4.00 ARC 6.02 D'Bridge 1.30* MakeNL 2.20 ARCA06 2.20* Dutchie 2.90C ParseList 1.30 ARCmail 2.0 FrontDoor 1.99b* Prune 1.40 ConfMail 4.00 PRENM 1.47 SysNL 3.01* EMM 2.02 SEAdog 4.51b XlatList 2.90 Gmail 2.01 XlaxDiff 2.32 GROUP 2.16 XlaxNode 2.32 GUS 1.30* LHARC 1.13 MSG 4.0 MSGED 1.99 PK[UN]ZIP 1.02* QM 1.0 QSORT 4.03 StarLink 1.01 TagMail 2.11b* TCOMMail 2.2 TMail 1.12 TPBNetEd 3.2 TosScan 1.00* UFGATE 1.03 XRS 3.10 ZmailQ 1.10* Macintosh --------- Bulletin Board Software Network Mailers Other Utilities FidoNews 7-07 Page 11 12 Feb 1990 Name Version Name Version Name Version Red Ryder Host v2.1b4 Tabby 2.1 MacArc 0.04 Mansion 7.15 Copernicus 1.0d* ArcMac 1.3 WWIV (Mac) 3.0 StuffIt 1.51 TImport 1.331 TExport 1.32 Timestamp 1.6 Tset 1.3 Import 2.52 Export 2.54 Sundial 2.1 UNZIP 1.01* Amiga ----- Bulletin Board Software Network Mailers Other Utilities Name Version Name Version Name Version Paragon 2.00+* BinkleyTerm 1.00 AmigArc 0.23 TrapDoor 1.11 booz 1.01 WelMat 0.35* ConfMail 1.10 ChameleonEdit 0.10 Lharc 1.00* oMMM 1.43b* ParseLst 1.30 PkAX 1.00 PK[UN]ZIP 1.01* RMB 1.30 UNzip 0.86 Zoo 2.00 Atari ST -------- Bulletin Board Software Network Mailer Other Utilities Name Version Name Version Name Version FIDOdoor/ST 1.5c* BinkleyTerm 1.03g3 ConfMail 1.00 Pandora BBS 2.41c The BOX 1.20 ParseList 1.30 QuickBBS/ST 0.40 ARC 6.02* GS Point 0.61 LHARC 0.51 PKUNZIP 1.10 MSGED 1.96S SRENUM 6.2 Trenum 0.10 OMMM 1.40 FidoNews 7-07 Page 12 12 Feb 1990 + Netmail capable (does not require additional mailer software) * Recently changed Utility authors: Please help keep this list up to date by reporting new versions to 1:1/1. It is not our intent to list all utilities here, only those which verge on necessity. ----------------------------------------------------------------- FidoNews 7-07 Page 13 12 Feb 1990 ================================================================= NOTICES ================================================================= The Interrupt Stack 17 Mar 1990 Release date for Opus v1.10 5 Jun 1990 David Dodell's 33rd Birthday 12 Jun 1990 Fifth anniversary of FidoNet's switch to multiple nets. 1 Aug 1990 Start of FidoCon '90. Contact Bill Vanglahn at 1:1/90 for details. 5 Oct 1990 21st Anniversary of "Monty Python's Flying Circus" 14 Nov 1990 Marco Maccaferri's 21rd Birthday. Send greetings to him at 2:332/16.0 If you have something which you would like to see on this calendar, please send a message to FidoNet node 1:1/1. -----------------------------------------------------------------