Frequently Asked Questions with Answers About The Internet and CompuServe's Internet Services
Version 10.0 -- October 1999
Introduction
This is a periodic posting about the Internet and CompuServe's Internet Services for members of the CompuServe Information Service.
In this document, you will find advice on how and where to find more information about the Internet. You will also learn about CompuServe's Internet services. Included are references to specific files with additional information that are available for downloading from the libraries of the CompuServe Internet Forums.
You'll frequently come across FAQ's (pronounced "facks") on Internet topics. We've used the same "question and answer" format in preparing this document.
For further help and support using the Internet from CompuServe, visit the any of the following forums:
Internet New Users Forum (GO INETNEW) is a great place to learn the basics of using the Internet. Here we offer a free course, Internet 101: A Beginner's Guide. With Internet 101, you can read the lessons at your own pace, and most lessons include an assignment so you can apply what you've learned. For more information about this course, download (retrieve) and read INET101.TXT from the Internet 101 Library (Library 2). Stop by on Sundays for our weekly "Help Conference" where you can get "live" assistance from experienced members and forum staff, or visit our Forum Chat Area any time of the week and mingle with other forum members.
Internet Fun Forum (GO INETFUN) is the place to go if you're seeking fun and entertainment on the Internet. Here you will find everything from tips for the hottest Internet games to live broadcasts and other exciting new technologies. Our feature article, Webicurean(tm), is devoted to epicurean adventures on the Internet, and our advice column, Ms. Netiquette(tm), is the place to ask about topics ranging from online etiquette to cyber-love.
E-Mail & Communications Forum (GO EMAILCOM) is your best resource for the latest information relating to e-mail and communications services, including support for CompuServe products such as POP3 mail, E-Mail to Pager and SmartRules. In addition, you'll find support for CompuServe's new Instant Messenger program as well as ICQ. Discussions here range from the basics of sending e-mail up to more advanced features such as sending faxes online and dealing with unsolicited email (spam).
Netscape Support Forum (GO NSSUPPORT) is the place to meet with other Netscape users and discuss use of the Netscape's Communicator suite. Here you will find discussions about the various versions of Navigator, including CompuServe's custom version, as well as information about using plug-ins and other Netscape components such as Messenger, Collabra, Composer and AIM.
Internet Resources Forum (GO INETRESOURCE) is the place to find the latest Internet-related software, tools, and FAQs that will help you make the most of your online time. In addition to assisting with your general software and research questions, the Internet Resources Forum features support sections for Opera, Mailcat, MIME2CIS, and Vocaltec's Internet Telephone.
Internet Publishing Forum (GO INETPUB) is the premiere resource for anyone wanting to publish information on the Internet, covering topics ranging from creating your first home page using CompuServe's Home Page Wizard & Publisher to managing a corporate Web site. Here we offer a free course, HomePage 101. With HomePage 101, you can learn the basics of HTML and Web page design while studying at your own pace. For more information about HomePage 101, download (retrieve) and read WEB101.TXT in the "HomePage 101" Library 11 of the forum.
Electronic Commerce Forum (GO ECOMMERCE) is devoted to discussions about electronic commerce and conducting business online. Here you will find information about the latest technology trends, as well as discussions about security, smartcards, payment methods and even management issues. SWREG support is available in this forum. This is the place for you to consult with your peers as you learn more about electronic commerce and its business applications.
For your convenience, this document is available in the following formats:
ASCII Text (CISFAQ.TXT)
MS Word (CISFAQ.DOC)
WordPerfect (CISFAQ.WPD)
Adobe/Acrobat (CISFAQ.PDF)
HTML (CISFAQ.HTM)
Comments and suggestions on this document are encouraged.
Please send them via CompuServe Mail to 71154,3234
(Internet:71154.3234@compuserve.com)
Copyright (C) 1999 Glenbrook Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Glenbrook Systems, Inc., PO Box 7130, Menlo Park, CA 94026-7130
1. INTERNET INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND
1.1 What is the Internet?
1.2 Where does the name "Internet" come from?
1.3 How do I join the Internet?
1.4 I find all of these new terms and acronyms hard to understand. Where
can I find a glossary to help me understand some of the terms?
1.5 What is the single best file to download to get an introduction to the
Internet?
1.6 Where can I find a list of books which address Internet topics?
1.7 What are RFC's and how can I get them?
1.8 How do I get access to the Internet from Easter Island, Terra del
Fuego, Toledo, or wherever I might be?
2. INTRODUCTION TO COMPUSERVE'S INTERNET SERVICES
2.1 What Internet services are available on CompuServe?
2.2 What are CompuServe's rates for Internet services?
2.3 Does CompuServe have special pricing for heavy Internet users?
3. COMPUSERVE'S WINCIM, CSi AND DIAL-UP PPP INTERNET ACCESS SERVICES
3.1 What isWinCIM and/or CSi?
3.2 What are the minimum system requirements for WinCIM 2.x?
3.3 What if I want to install WinCIM 2.x and I have existing Internet
software installed?
3.4 Will re-installing WinCIM overwrite my Internet Explorer Favourite
places?
3.5 Will re-installing WinCIM/CSi overwrite my IEXPLORE.INI in the \WINDOWS
directory?
3.6 Can I use other WINSOCK client applications with the CompuServe
Internet Dialer?
3.7 Where can I find additional WINSOCK client applications to use?
3.8 I'm a Macintosh user. What about me?
3.9 I have a PC but I do not have Windows. Is there a DOS application I can
use?
3.10 I am having problems with my Internet software. Who do I go to for
support?
3.11 Can I use the CompuServe PPP gateway to access USENET Newsgroups and
Electronic Mail?
3.12 Is there a way to be online with the CompuServe Information Manager
first, and then use Internet Explorer to access the net without using the Internet Dialer?
3.13 Can I log on to the CompuServe Information Service after connecting
with CID?
3.14 Can I use my computer as a host over a CompuServe PPP connection to
publish and make available information on the Internet directly from my computer?
3.15 Are there any security concerns with using PPP?
3.16 What is the difference between PPP and SLIP?
3.17 While trying to use the CompuServe Internet Dialer, I get the error
message "Incorrect Userid or Password". What does this mean?
3.18 While trying to use the CompuServe Internet Dialer, I get the error
message "Invalid Baud Rate". What does this mean?
3.19 While trying to retrieve from the GO WINCIM area, I get the error
message "Bad File Transmission". What does this mean?
3.20 Can I use PPP over CompuServe-affiliate networks?
3.21 What is Netscape?
3.22 Where can I get Netscape?
3.23 Will Netscape work with CompuServe's CID?
3.24 Where do I get Trumpet?
3.25 How do I install Trumpet?
3.26 How do I install Trumpet to work through a non-CompuServe internet
connection?
3.27 Can I connect to Compuserve and the internet using my
palmtop/handheld computer or mobile phone?
4.1 What is Ourworld?
4.2 How do I create my homepage?
4.3 What is the CompuServe Home Page Wizard?
4.4 What are the minimum system requirements for the Home Page
Wizard(tm)?
4.5 Is there a Mac version of the Home Page Wizard(tm)?
4.6 Can I publish my Web page if I've used other authoring tools to
create the HTML documents? 4.7 How much storage space do I have
available for my page?
4.8 Can I create subdirectories in my OurWorld space? Can I use long
file names and place Java applets there?
4.9 Can I setup a web page for my business?
5.1 How can I access information on the World Wide Web from CompuServe?
5.2 What do I need to use to browse the World Wide Web?
5.3 Is it normal to receive my Web pages so slowly?
6.1 How can I send CompuServe Mail to users on the Internet?
6.2 How do I find someone's Internet Email address?
6.3 How can my friends on the Internet send email to my CompuServe Mailbox?
6.4 Can I use an alias rather than a number for my Email address?
6.5 How can I send CompuServe Mail to users on other services such as
America Online, Prodigy, Delphi, etc.?6.6 How do I send binary files to
the Internet via CompuServe?
6.7 Is there any file size limit when sending files to addressees on the
Internet?
6.8 What is the cost of sending/receiving files?
6.9 How long does it take for an Internet mail message to reach the
addressee?
6.10 What's all that garbage at the top of my internet email and how do I
get rid of it?
7.1 What are Usenet newsgroups? How can I access them on CompuServe?
8.1 How can I learn more about Internet mailing lists?
9.1 Can I access the CompuServe Information Service from an
Internet-connected host computer?
9.2 Is it possible to telnet from CompuServe to other hosts on the
Internet?
9.3 What are the advantages of using the CompuServe telnet interface?
9.4 What type of software is recommended for using the CompuServe telnet
service?
9.5 How do I ensure that WinCIM is in VT100 terminal emulation mode?
9.6 What do I do if I do not know the user id and password to enter at a
site?
9.7 What type of performance can I expect when I connect to a telnet site?
9.8 How can I change my default telnet options?
9.9 Can I telnet to a specific port?
9.10 How do I disconnect from a site during a telnet session?
10. FILE TRANSFER PROTOCOL (FTP)
10.1 Is it possible to use anonymous FTP from CompuServe to other hosts
on the Internet?
10.2 What is FTP and how does it work?
10.3 Do I need special software to use CompuServe's FTP services?
10.4 How do I use CompuServe's FTP services?
10.5 May I access all anonymous FTP sites on the Internet through
CompuServe?
10.6 How can I find files of interest to me on FTP sites?
10.7 Some of the files I want to retrieve end in an extension of tar. What
does this mean?
10.8 How do I unarchive UNIX tar files?
10.9 Why do some files on remote FTP sites have no file size listed?
10.10 Sometimes when I retrieve a file using FTP, I end up in a different
directory. Why is this?
10.11 Sometimes the error box appears when I try to change directories
using FTP. What does this mean?
10.12 Is host site security the reason I can't retrieve certain files?
10.13 Is it possible to use anonymous FTP from an Internet host to access
the forum libraries of CompuServe?10.14 How can I search for files
that might be available on the Internet?
10.15 I've got a file with .hqx, .z, .gz, or .tar in the filename. How do
I read it?
10.16 Can I upload a file to a site using CompuServe's FTP?
11.1 I notice some of the files in the forum libraries are compressed
and have filenames ending in .ZIP. Where can I find the utility program to decompress
these files?
11.2 I am having problems with my Internet software. Who do I call for
support?
11.3 How can I best use a CompuServe forum to my fullest advantage without
having to empty my wallet every month?
11.4 How do I retrieve a file from a forum library?
1. INTERNET INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND
The Internet, a global network web of millions of computers on tens of thousands of mostly private networks, provides access to uncounted millions of users world-wide. Today, over a hundred countries are linked into exchanges of data, news and opinions over the Internet.
1.2 Where does the name "Internet" come from?
The term "Internet" comes from "inter-networking" - in other words, the process of connecting multiple host computers and their associated networks together to create a larger network.
1.3 How do I join the Internet?
You can't. Unlike CompuServe and the other commercial online services, the Internet isn't an online service that you can go join. Rather, Internet services are provided as a part of your subscription to most online services. The extent of the Internet services available varies among the various commercial online services. This document addresses those Internet services which are available to CompuServe subscribers.
1.4 I find all of these new terms and acronyms hard to understand. Where can I find a glossary to help me understand some of the terms?
See RFC1392.TXT in the Internet New Users Forum "Internet Archives" Library (LIB 23). It contains a comprehensive glossary of networking terms. Highly recommended for downloading and keeping as a handy reference near your computer!
1.5 What is the single best file to download to get an introduction to the Internet?
The "EFF Guide to the Internet" is available in the file NETGUIDE.ZIP in the Internet New Users Forum (GO INETNEW) "Internet 101" (LIB 2) library. There is also a text version of this file, NTGD32.TXT. It's a great introduction to the Internet and well worth downloading.
Additionally, in the Internet New Users Forum, there are programmed lesson files in library 2 of that forum that are specifically written for internet newcomers. The lessons are free, and you can start by retrieving the course overview, filename INET101.TXT and reading it. The entire course is available as a program that you can run on your computer INET101.EXE
Yahoo (http://www.yahoo.com) had an excellent set of links to web sites with beginner's guides to the internet.
1.6 Where can I find a list of books which address Internet topics?
New books are being published at such a rapid rate that any list of recommended titles will be out of date almost immediately. To see a list of current bestsellers connect to Amazon (http://www.amazon.com)
An excellent recent book on the internet is:
THE WHOLE INTERNET: THE NEXT GENERATION
By Kiersten Conner; Ed Krol.
O'Reilly UK, 30 Sep 1999, Published in UK
576pp 232 x 178mm
PAPERBACK UK 16.50 1-56592-428-2
US Wholesaler Price: $24.95
This volume on how to make the Net work for you covers how to: minimize your
junk email; master your mailing lists and customize your mailer; play virtually
any online game; buy and sell on the Internet; and protect your privacy. It
also covers some Internet applications such as "push" technologies,
conferencing tools, and tools for receiving audio and video broadcasts that
turn your computer into a telephone, television, or movie screen.
1.7 What are RFC's and how can I get them?
RFC's are "Request for Comments". They are used within the Internet community to propose new technical standards, approaches, etc. for protocols, services, etc. In effect, the library of RFC's provides an online source of the most important Internet-related documentation. Some of the most important RFC's can be found in the Internet Resources Forum Libraries. In addition, an index of all of the RFC's is also available. See the "Reference Materials" Library. If the RFC you are interested in is not available in the Internet Resources Forum Library, you can connect your web browser to http://www.garlic.com/~lynn/rfcietf.html, http://www.isi.edu/rfc-editor/index.html, or http://www.rfc-editor.org.
1.8 How do I get access to the Internet from Easter Island, Tierra del Fuego, Toledo, or wherever I might be?
See the file REMOTE.TXT in the Email Software Library [10] of the Email & Communications Forum for information and instructions on accessing CompuServe over the internet, from another Internet access provider.
2. INTRODUCTION TO COMPUSERVE'S INTERNET SERVICES
2.1 What Internet services are available on CompuServe?
CompuServe members have access to these basic services:
* Internet Email (GO MAIL). For more information on how to send CompuServe Mail to
Internet addresses, see the file CSMAIL.TXT
in the "Using Email" library (LIB 5) of the Internet New Users Forum.
CompuServe supports sending and receiving Email using the POP3 mail protocol.
Download the file POPMAIL.PDF
from the POP3 Email Section [Lib 12] of the Email & Communications Forum (requires the
Adobe Acrobat Reader program) or GO POPINFO for more information.
* World Wide Web. All current versions of the Compuserve software include web browsing capability.
* Homepages. Compuserve allows you to create and publish your own world wide web pages. To download the required software GO HPWIZ, for support and further information GO OWCLASSIC or GO WORLD2000 (for CS2000 members) to access the Ourworld Forums.
* Usenet Newsgroups (GO USENET).
* File Transfer Protocol (GO FTP)
* Telnet (GO TELNET)
CompuServe supports access to the CompuServe Information Service over the Internet using your web browser. The main web page address is http://www.compuserve.com In order to logon to the Compuserve forums you need to install and setup the Virtual Key software. This is included with versions 3 and 4 of the Compuserve access software or you can download the program at GO VKEY. The files V16SETUP.EXE and V32SETUP.EXE in the POP3 Email Service Section [Lib 12] of the EMAILCOMM forum libraries show you how to do this.
You can also access Compuserve using the telnet protocol from other Internet hosts. Just Telnet to gateway.CompuServe.com.
Extensions of these services include IRC (Internet Relay Chat) and other capabilities.
There are three distinct ways of accessing CompuServe's Internet services:
1. ASCII Mode: ASCII mode is the "bulletin board" style of access that works for users of practically every type of computer. To use ASCII mode, you need only simple terminal software. The Internet services available to ASCII users are Email, Usenet and Telnet. This is not available to all users.
2. HMI (Host-Micro Interface) Mode: HMI is the form of communication used by WinCIM, CSi and some other software specific to CompuServe and it is proprietary to CompuServe. HMI software is available for MS DOS, MS Windows, OS/2 and Macintosh. HMI users have access to Email, Usenet, Telnet and FTP.
3. PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol): PPP is an open standard for direct TCP/IP connections. When you access CompuServe using PPP, your computer actually becomes part of the Internet with its own IP address. PPP users can access almost all Internet services, including the World Wide Web, using any PPP connection software along with any PPP clients. You can also use newer versions of WinCIM or CSi to access the traditional CompuServe areas while you are connected to the Internet. Current versions of the Compuserve access software include the PPP capability automatically, allowing one to connect with the software and then start other internet software.
2.2 What are CompuServe's rates for Internet services?
Since these are subject to change GO RATES for the latest information.
2.3 Does CompuServe have special pricing for heavy Internet users?
GO RATES for the latest information.
3. COMPUSERVE'S WINCIM, CSi AND DIAL-UP PPP INTERNET ACCESS SERVICES
3.1 What is WinCIM or CSi or Compuserve or CS2000?
The following versions of the Compuserve access software are available. WinCIM runs under
Windows 3.1, Compuserve 3 under Windows 95 and Compuserve 4 under Windows 98.
Compuserve 2000 is a separate service based on America Online and requires a new account to be setup
The Software Support Forum (GO word SFTSUP) provides assistance in using all versions
of the access software with the exception of CS2000 (GO HELP2000)
*WinCIM/CompuServe 2.X
*CompuServe 3 and CompuServe 4
*Compuserve 2000 and Compuserve 5
*DosCIM
*OS2CIM
*MacCIM
*CompuServe 3 for the Mac
CompuServe's WinCIM, which has undergone a name change to "CSi" or just "Compuserve," is a set of Windows programs which includes CompuServe's Information Manager software as well as the Internet Explorer Web browser. GO CSISOFT will take you to the downloading area. CSi versions 2.6, 3.0 and 4.0 consist of three applications:
The CompuServe Information Manager (CIM) allows you to navigate CompuServe's various services.
The CompuServe Internet Dialer (CID) allows you to establish a Point-to-Point (PPP) link with the Internet through CompuServe's network. You can start CID as a stand-alone application, or it can be invoked by another Internet application. Note: this is intended only for Windows 3.1 users. Windows 95 and above uses Dial Up Networking (DUN) to make the connection
Internet Explorer is an award-winning World Wide Web browser. If you have set CSi 2.6 to establish a PPP connection when you dial in ("Use Winsock" under Special|Session Settings), you can launch Internet Explorer from CSi 2.6 and then begin accessing the Web page that you requested.
Compuserve 2000 (CS2000) is a separate service to 'classic' compuserve and is based on software very much like that used by America Online (AOL.)
3.2 What are the minimum system requirements for CSi 2.6 and up?
386 or faster CPU, 8MB of RAM, 10MB of free hard drive space, Windows 3.1 or higher, running in Enhanced Mode (CSi 3.x requires Windows 95 or Windows NT), VGA monitor running 640 by 480, and a 9600bps or faster modem.
3.3 What if I want to install CSi and I have existing Internet software installed?
The CompuServe CSi installation program will give you several options regarding the Internet connectivity. You may choose to use CompuServe's WINSOCK.DLL for all Internet connections (for example, if you have no other provider), with WinCIM/CSi and Internet Explorer only (if you have another provider, but also wish to use CompuServe's services), or not to install WINSOCK.DLL at all (in the case where you're using another provider to get access to CompuServe). You should terminate any Internet access software before installing CSi, and it's a good idea to exit all other programs too.
Note: If you are currently accessing the Internet from a LAN connection, you may need to consult with your LAN administrator before disabling your Internet software.
3.4 Will re-installing WinCIM overwrite my Internet Explorer favourite places?
Yes, it will overwrite the ones that came with Internet Explorer by default. In DOS, change to the IEXPLORE directory by typing:
cd c:\iexplore then backup the favourites lists by typing:
copy *.htm *.old
to backup the favourites lists. After reinstalling you can restore them with the command:
copy *.old *.htm
3.5 Will re-installing WinCIM/CSi overwrite my IEXPLORE.INI in the \WINDOWS directory?
Yes. Rename it before re-installing the software, and once the re-installation is complete, rename it back to IEXPLORE.INI
3.6 Can I use other WINSOCK client applications with the CompuServe Internet Dialer?
Yes, you should be able to use any WINSOCK client application with the CompuServe Internet Dialer. This only works for Windows 3.x For Windows 9x/NT, only 16-bit applications can be used with the CompuServe Internet Dialer.
3.7 Where can I find additional WINSOCK client applications to use?
The Internet Resources Forum - GO INETRES - contains both PC and Macintosh Internet-related software for downloading.
3.8 I'm a Macintosh user. What about me?
It's also possible for Macintosh users to take advantage of CompuServe's Dial-up PPP Internet access service. Exactly how this is done will depend to a large extent on the version of the System software that you are running on your computer. Click the Apple menu and choose About This Macintosh to find out.
For the vast majority of recent machines, the files FREEPPP.SIT and WWWBF25.TXT in the 'Get Connected Now!' [LIB 11] of the Macintosh Communications Forum (GO word MACCOMM) will get you connected to the internet.
If you have an older machine then the file OLDMAC.TXT in the same library will provide useful information.
For an excellent tutorial which forms part of the INET101 course click here.
3.9 I have a PC but I do not have Windows. Is there a DOS application I can use?
Yes. CompuServe no longer provides direct support for DOS Internet access, but it's still possible at this time through the CompuServe Information Service. There are a limited number of DOS Internet access packages available, none of which are provided by CompuServe. One package available in the DOS Inet/Mail/Tools Library (LIB 4) of the Internet Resources Forum is INETDOS.EXE, and it comes preconfigured for use through CompuServe's Internet access service. This package includes Minuet, a DOS based Web Browser, and EtherPPP, the dialer application. Also included is the README.NOW file which has simplified set-up instructions. Another package which is less crash-prone, is called Net Tamer. You can find the latest version of Net Tamer in the Internet Resources Forum (GO INETRES) also. Just search the library of that forum with keyword NET TAMER. ARACHNE is another addition to the libraries there and has a graphical interface.
3.10 I am having problems with my Internet software. Who do I go to for support?
GO INTERNET to access CompuServe's Internet Forums. Here you will be able to find client applications, answers to frequently asked questions and you will be able to exchange messages with other CompuServe members.
Obviously, CompuServe cannot be expected to support all of the Internet software packages available on the market. For problems with your Internet access software, contact the vendor of the particular software package.
3.11 Can I use the CompuServe PPP gateway to access USENET Newsgroups and Electronic Mail?
CompuServe provides access to a news server for use with the dial up PPP access. This means that you have the freedom of using the USENET newsreader software of your choice, simply configure it to read from the news.CompuServe.com server. This does not apply to CS2000 users and you must be using CompuServe's dial-up access at the time you connect to the service.
CompuServe supports sending and receiving Email through PPP using the POP3 mail protocol. Download the file POPMAIL.PDF from the POP3 Email Section [Lib 12] of the Email & Communications Forum (requires the Adobe Acrobat Reader program) or GO POPINFO for more information.
3.12 Is there a way to be online with the CompuServe Information Manager first, and then use Internet Explorer to access the net without using the Internet Dialer?
No. You need to disconnect with CIM and then reconnect with the CompuServe Internet Dialer. With CSi 2.x, before you connect, select "Use Winsock" under Special|Session Settings, and you will then be able to launch Internet Explorer from CSi by clicking on the Explorer (globe) button on the CSi screen. All recent versions of the access software allow you to use WinCIM and a Web browser simultaneously.
3.13 Can I log on to the CompuServe Information Service after connecting with CID?
Yes. You can, for example, use CSi 2.6 with "Use Winsock" selected under Special|Session Settings or CS Navigator 1.1 with the Connector setting set to WINSOCK to log on via a PPP connection.
3.14 Can I use my computer as a host over a CompuServe PPP connection to publish and make available information on the Internet directly from my computer?
No. With CompuServe's dial PPP service, you are assigned a dynamic IP address from bank of IP addresses available to CompuServe members. This means your IP address will change each time you establish a new PPP connection. In order to provide information on the Internet (i.e. run your own World Wide Web page), you need a static (permanent) IP address. In addition, online electronic publishing requires a dedicated physical link to the Internet to be useful. The Internet Publishing Forum (GO INETPUB) provides further information and resources regarding online electronic publishing on the Internet. Visit INETWEB to learn abbout getting a full-time connection suitable for establishing a permanent site. Visit Ourworld (GO OWFORUM) for more information on personal homepages.
3.15 Are there any security concerns with using PPP?
This is questionable right now. There are concerns that people using Win95 with "Allow others to share my files" may be at risk for allowing others to *read* files from their computers.
As always, we suggest that you follow standard security measures with this, as well as any other service. Keep in mind that it is not recommended that you send any sensitive or personal information over the Internet.
3.16 What is the difference between PPP and SLIP?
SLIP (Serial Line Internet protocol) also allows computers direct dial up access to the Internet. However, PPP is newer, faster and considered more flexible and feature-laden than SLIP. CompuServe does not support SLIP.
3.17 While trying to use the CompuServe Internet Dialer, I get the error message "Incorrect Userid or Password". What does this mean?
Check your Session Settings in CID. Choose Settings|Sessions and delete and reenter the User Id and Password. Then try using CID again.
If this does not solve the problem, try deleting (or renaming) the CIS.INI file in the \CSERVE directory.
Then launch CSi and reenter the connection settings. Try to connect with CSi. If you get the same error message, you are probably not entering your account password correctly. Otherwise close CSi, launch CID and check to see that the settings appear for the Session under the Settings menu. Try using CID again.
If you're not sure what your current CompuServe account password is, you can call Customer Service and they will generate a new one for you.
3.18 While trying to use the CompuServe Internet Dialer, I get the error message "Invalid Baud Rate". What does this mean?
Make sure you have no other Windows communications programs (including fax software) running when you try to connect with WinCIM. You may need to close any other communications applications.
3.19 While trying to download from the GO CSISOFT area, I get the error message "Bad File Transmission". What does this mean?
In order to maximise the likelihood of a successful download:
* do not run the download as a background process * do not try to download the file directly to a floppy disk * make sure that the target directory has sufficient space * make sure that if you have call waiting, that it is disabled during the transfer attempt * disable any virus-checking programs during the time of download.
3.20 Can I use PPP over CompuServe-affiliate networks?
The dial PPP service should work over most affiliate networks.
3.21 What is Netscape? Is it the same as Internet Explorer?
No, Netscape is a web browser made by Netscape Communications Corporation (now owned by America Online.) Internet Explorer is another web browser which is included in CSi 2.x and up, which also includes the CompuServe Internet Dialer (CID) and ImageView.
3.22 Where can I get Netscape?
You can get a free, customised version of Netscape that's optimised to work best through your CompuServe account, at GO NETSCAPE. If you need a version of Netscape you can configure for other than your CompuServe account, then read the files NS304-16.TXT (Windows 3.1) or NS304-32.TXT (Windows 95) in the Windows 3.x section (LIB 8) of the Netscape Users Forum at GO NSUSER.
3.23 Will Netscape work with CompuServe's CID?
Yes. The customised version will work with your CompuServe software immediately after you install it-depending on the options selected during the installation process. If you have a store-bought version, or a version downloaded from somewhere other than CompuServe, it will work with the CID also, but some tweaking may be necessary. For questions relating to Netscape, visit the Netscape Users Forum (GO NSUSER).
In the Internet Resources Forum (GO INETRES) Win Connect Tools Section [Lib 7.] For windows 3.x users, download TWSK21F.ZIP and TWSCIS.ZIP. The associated instruction file for setting it up to work with your CompuServe account can also be downloaded there. Filename is TRUMPET.TXT. For Windows 95/NT users, download TWSK30D.EXE and TRUMPET3.EXE. The associated instruction file for setting it up to work with your CompuServe account can also be downloaded there. Filename is TRUMPET3.TXT.
3.25 How do I install Trumpet?
Get the installation instructions file for whatever version of Trumpet you have, from the Internet Resources Forum (Go INETRES). For the 16-bit version 2.1f of the Trumpet Winsock dialer program, download TRUMPET.TXT from the DOS/WIN SW Tools section (LIB 6). For the combination 16-bit/32-bit version 3.0d of the Trumpet Winsock dialer program, download TRUMPET3.TXT from that same library.
3.26 How do I install Trumpet to work through a non-CompuServe internet connection? (i.e.; my separate ISP for example.)
The best thing to do is to contact your service provider and seek the assistance of their technical help. If you'd like to take a shot at it yourself and learn a little about how its done, then check out the Trumpet Scripting Beginner's lessons in the Internet New Users forum (GO INETNEW) "Internet 101" library (LIB 2). Filenames to download and read are: I101X2A.TXT, I101X2B.TXT, I101X2C.TXT and I101X2.EXE. These lessons are well written for the beginner and while they teach you the basics of scripting the Trumpet dialer program to connect to the internet through your CompuServe account, the basic knowledge you learn will be all that's necessary for you to figure out how to make it work through practically any Internet Service Provider that supports a PPP connection.
3.27 Can I connect to Compuserve and the internet with my palmtop/handheld computer or mobile phone?
In most cases the answer is yes but it depends on the type of device you are using. For help files visit the PALMTOP forum and search the libraries there using the keyword 'internet.'
Ourworld (http://ourworld.compuserve.com) is where you can publish your very own web page on the internet. It is free to all CompuServe members. At this time, CompuServe allows a maximum of 5 MB of storage space per member.
For some reasons why you might want to do this (and some tips on avoiding the most common mistakes when creating a personal homepage) connect to: http://ourworld.compuserve.com/ourworld/publish/stepout.html
4.2 How do I create my homepage?
In the Internet Publishing Forum (GO INETPUB) you will find a
== Free self-paced course: HomePage 101 ==
Dave Taylor, author of the best-selling "Creating Cool HTML 3.2 Web Pages" (IDG
Books) and president of The Internet Mall, is writing an online course for CompuServe
members. In HomePage 101, Dave walks you through the process of creating your own Web
site, starting with the design techniques and publishing basics. HomePage 101 covers the
foundations of HTML, formatting, and creating and uploading files to CompuServe's Ourworld
service.
For an overview of the course, download file WEB101.TXT from the
HomePage 101 Files Library section (section #11) of the Internet Publishing Forum (GO
INETPUB)
There are many other useful help files and programs in the libraries there.
4.3 What is the CompuServe Home Page Wizard?
CompuServe's Home Page Wizard is a Windows program which allows you to create a Web page using drag-and-drop editing and templates and requires no knowledge of HTML (HyperText Markup Language). Included with the Home Page Wizard is the Publishing Wizard which allows you to publish your completed page on the Web.
4.4 What are the minimum system requirements for the Home Page Wizard(tm)?
386 or faster CPU, 8MB of RAM, 2MB of free hard drive space and one high-density floppy drive, Windows 3.1 or higher, running in Enhanced Mode, VGA or higher resolution monitor, a WINSOCK.DLL and an Internet dialer (CompuServe Internet Dialer is included with CSi 2.6 and up), and a mouse.
4.5 Is there a Mac version of the Home Page Wizard(tm)?
No, but the Mac Publishing Wizard (GO MACPUBWIZ) allows you to upload files that you have created using the tools of your choice.
4.6 Can I publish my Web page if I've used other authoring tools to create the HTML documents?
Yes. Any HTML file can be published on CompuServe by using the Publishing Wizard(tm).
4.7 How much storage space do I have available for my page?
At this time, CompuServe allows a maximum of 5 MB of storage space per member.
For additional FAQs on the Home Page Wizard software, please refer to WIZFAQ.TXT (ASCII text format) or WIZFAQ.WRI (Windows Write format) in the Ourworld Web Pages Library [3] of the Internet Publishers Forum (GO INETPUB).
4.8 Can I create subdirectories in my OurWorld space? Can I use long file names and place Java applets there?
Yes, but only if you are using Windows 95 or Windows NT. You'll need to retrieve WEBPOST.EXE from the Internet Publishing Forum (GO INETPUB), in the Ourworld Web Pages section [3.] After you've obtained the program, assistance in using WebPost may be obtained in the Internet Publishers Forum at GO INETPUB.
4.9 Can I setup a web page for my business?
BusinessWeb by Verio (http://www.veriobusinessweb.com/index.html) provies a complete service for those members wishing to setup a commercial web site.
5.1 How can I access information on the World Wide Web from CompuServe?
All recent versions of the Compuserve access software (version 2.6 and above) have the ability to access the world wide web (WWW.) For those members not using Compuserve's software, CompuServe's dial-up PPP Internet access service provides full connectivity to the Internet from your computer. Once a dial-up PPP session is established, your computer is actually connected to the Internet and you can then run any TCP/IP-based software applications on your computer and access the full range of services available on the Internet. This includes being able to run the World Wide Web browser of your choice to access any site on the World Wide Web.
Full details on the dial-up PPP Internet access service including configuration information for a variety of systems/operating systems can be found on the GO PPP menu.
5.2 What do I need to use to browse the World Wide Web?
FOR WINDOWS 3.x:
1. CompuServe CSi 2.6 (GO CSISOFT to download it).
FOR WINDOWS 95/NT
1. CompuServe CSi 3.0 (GO CSISOFT to download it).
FOR Macintosh:
1. Internet Access Software. You can get the MAC version of Netscape customised for
your CompuServe account at GO NETSCAPE. You can also get a MAC version of Internet
Explorer at GO INTEXPLORE.
2. MacTCP ( included in Macintosh System 7.5 or purchased separately from Apple). Later
system versions use Open Transport and TCP/IP or Remote Access and TCP/IP.
3. MacPPP or FreePPP (available in the MACCOMM Forum).
Note: See section 3.8 in this FAQ for other useful files.
FOR OS/2
1. IBM's WebExplorer or Netscape
For all operating systems, it is recommended that when using World Wide Web that you disable the loading of images, unless you are accessing at 14,400 bits per second (V.32bis standard) or higher.
5.3 Is it normal to receive my Web pages so slowly?
Yes it is. Popular Internet services are often slow because too many people are accessing them at once.
The Internet is maintained independently at thousands of sites around the world. The information that you access originates OUTSIDE of CompuServe, and CompuServe therefore claims no responsibility for the content. The reliability, availability and performance of resources accessed via the Internet are beyond CompuServe's control and are not warranted or supported by CompuServe in any way. If many people access a site at the same time, performance will deteriorate. Be prepared to wait for the remote system to respond to your requests if you are using it during periods of peak demand. Information you obtain from the Internet may not have been pre- checked by any content manager. It is your responsibility to determine that you have rights to use the information for your intended purpose.
6.1 How can I send CompuServe Mail to users on the Internet?
See the file CSMAIL.TXT in the Internet New Users Forum "Internet Email" (LIB 3) library for information on CompuServe Mail's gateway to the Internet.
6.2 How do I find someone's Internet Email address?
There is no complete directory of users on the Internet. As a result, searching for someone's Email address really isn't practical at this time. There are new directory services being constructed to help solve this problem but, for the moment, the simplest thing to do is to ask your friends over the telephone what their Internet Email address is! Here are some alternative approaches which sometimes work:
1. Retrieve and read FINDADDR.FAQ from the Using Email section [5] library of the Internet New Users Forum at GO INETNEW. This document is updated periodically if and when new information comes to light.
2. Connect your browser to http://search.compuserve.com
3. On the Web, connect to http://www.hitekinfo.com/findanemail2.htm
4. Finding college addresses
Check out COLLEGE.TXT in the Using Email section [5] library of the Internet New Users Forum at GO INETNEW.
6.3 How can my friends on the Internet send email to my CompuServe Mailbox?
Your CompuServe Mailbox can be used to receive email from users anywhere on the Internet. You can be addressed from the Internet as:
userid@compuserve.com
where the userid is your normal CompuServe userid but with the comma replaced by a period.
For example, if your userid was: 71234,123. Your Internet address would be:
71234.123@compuserve.com
More details on addressing can be found in the file CSMAIL.TXT in the Internet New User's Forum "Using Email" (LIB 5) library.
6.4 Can I use an alias rather than a number for my Email address?
Yes. But you have to set this up. First, you must be on CompuServe's new mail system. GO NEWMAIL to convert your mailbox from the old mail services. Then GO REGISTER to select the personalised alias of your choice, to be used as the userid part of your e-mail address. Be sure to choose your personal alias carefully, as you are only permitted to change it once in a 3 month period. Finally, GO MAILSET to set up your options.
6.5 How can I send CompuServe Mail to users on other services such as America Online, Prodigy, Delphi, etc.?
Addressing CompuServe Mail to users on other services can be done as follows:
America Online: internet:user@aol.com
Delphi: internet:user@delphi.com
Genie: internet:user@genie.geis.com
Prodigy: internet:user@prodigy.com
For details on addressing CompuServe Mail to other systems, see the file MAILGD.TXTin the Internet New Users Forum "Using Email" (LIB 5) library or GO MAILCENTER to get to the CompuServe Electronic Mail Center.
6.6 How do I send binary files to the Internet via CompuServe?
If you are on the CompuServe new mail system (GO NEWMAIL), you can send binary files to internet addresses the same as you would to another CompuServe address. Just compose your message and attach the binary file you wish to send using the attach options of whatever e-mail software you are using to connect to CompuServe with.
6.7 Is there any file size limit when sending files to addressees on the Internet?
CompuServe Mail limits the maximum file size to 10 megabytes for both sending and receiving internet mail.
However, other systems may not support files which are this large. Before sending a large file to an Internet addressee, be sure to first sent a note to inquire whether there are any file size limitations on the receiving system.
6.8 What is the cost of sending/receiving files?
There is no additional cost for sending and receiving Email or files. Charges are based solely upon connect time.
6.9 How long does it take for an Internet mail message to reach the addressee?
Because the Internet is a network made up of thousands of different computers and because an individual mail message might pass through a number of machines in getting to its destination, it is difficult to predict how long it will take for a message, once sent, to be received.
6.10 What's all that garbage at the top of my internet email and how do I get rid of it?
Internet headers are the lines of routing information found on your inbound e-mail from
the Internet. CompuServe allows you to choose the way that this information is displayed.
Headers may be:
1. at the top of your messages,
2. at the bottom of your messages,
3. or omitted from your mail messages.
Please be aware that omitting the header information may impact troubleshooting mail
issues or detecting fraudulent use of e-mail.
GO MAILSET and click on the option 'Choose a Display Option for Internet Headers.'
7.1 What are Usenet newsgroups? How can I access them on CompuServe?
CompuServe supports access to the thousands of Usenet newsgroups available. Usenet newsgroups are organised by subject - similar to the messaging sections of CompuServe forums. Individual users from around the world post items of interest to specific newsgroups. You can read these items and, if desired, respond and post additional items yourself.
To access the Usenet newsgroup area on CompuServe, use the command:
GO USENET
You can find out more about individual newsgroups at web sites such as http://www.dejanews.com and http://www.remarq.com or http://www.liszt.com
8.1 How can I learn more about Internet mailing lists?
One of the best kept secrets on the Internet are the hundreds of mailing lists used to conduct online discussions on a huge variety of topics. Similar to Usenet newsgroups, mailing lists span a wide range of interests and the hardest part is learning that they even exist!
To find out more connect to http://www.liszt.com
Back To Top
9.1 Can I access the CompuServe Information Service from an Internet-connected host computer?
Yes. This is accomplished using "in-bound telnet" to the CompuServe host computers.
If you are using CSi 2.x, see the file WINCIMTN.TXT in the Internet New Users Forum "Connect w/PCs" Library (LIB 3) for more information on using telnet with CSi.
If you are using MacCIM, you'll need a Telnet Communications Toolbox Tool and MacTCP to use in-bound telnet to access CompuServe. GO MACCOMM and look under "Black Knght" in the libraries there.
If you are using a terminal program on an Internet-connected host computer, you can use the telnet command to access CompuServe. Windows 9X/NT has a built-in telnet application, just click Start, Run and the type the telnet command. The format is:
telnet gateway.CompuServe.com
You must be sure that the telnet parameters are set properly for the link to work correctly. The best settings to use are:
Enable binary
Disable escape
Enable CRLF options
Set terminal type to VT100
Set character mode
Not many services are available by telnetting into CompuServe. After logging in you will see an exclamation point prompt (!). Type HELP and press the Enter key.
9.2 Is it possible to telnet from CompuServe to other hosts on the Internet?
Yes. CompuServe supports outbound telnet access from CompuServe to other host computers on the Internet.
Telnet is an Internet facility which allows you to execute commands on remote computers as though you were logged in locally. In order to establish a telnet connection, you need to know the name of the computer site you want to access and have a valid user name and password for that site.
Some telnet sites allow for guest logins. Guest accounts typically are restricted to limited types of actions during a telnet session. Although your telnet session is actually running software directly on the site's computer, you will be running a program that prevents you from accessing the general capabilities of that computer. Once you are connected to a telnet site, you will often see a menu-driven system which is under the control of the telnet site, and guides you through the actions you may perform at that site.
Another common use of telnet is for users to be able to log into their computers from remote locations.
In this case, users enter their own user names and passwords and, therefore, have the same user privileges they would have when logged in without using telnet.
9.3 What are the advantages of using the CompuServe telnet interface?
CompuServe presents a controlled view of the Internet. Access is gained through a menu system that provides information about a site, as well as seamless menu driven access to a site. In addition, CompuServe members have the ability to telnet to any site of their choice, even if it is not listed on the menu.
You can use CompuServe Telnet from any point where you can establish a connection to CompuServe. For a frequent traveller, this will allow connecting to a given site from over 1000 cites world-wide.
9.4 What type of software is recommended for using the CompuServe telnet service?
Telnet sites generally expect that you will be running terminal emulation software that can emulate a VT100 terminal. While VT100 will be supported in WinCIM 1.4 and higher, WinCIM 1.3 or below may not meet your needs. MacCIM 2.4.1 (as well as earlier versions) supports a subset of VT100 capabilities but it is not fully VT100 compliant. MacCIM version 3.0 will have full VT100 support. Other terminal emulators that have been used successfully with the CompuServe Telnet gateway include Windows Terminal, Procomm, and Dynacomm.
9.5 How do I ensure that CSi 2.6 is in VT100 terminal emulation mode?
When using CSi to access the telnet service, you will automatically be placed in full VT100 terminal emulation mode. You may notice that your screen changes colour as VT100 is turned on. Upon exiting the telnet application, your default terminal emulation settings will be restored.
9.6 What do I do if I do not know the user id and password to enter at a site?
Some sites invite you to access them, and make arrangements in advance. Either they will give you a user ID and password for your personal use, or they will provide a "guest" or "visitor" login and password that can be used by the general public." Many telnet sites allow people who do not have an account on their computer to login as guest. Just type guest at the user id prompt. In most circumstances you do not have to enter a password if you are a guest. Occasionally, this password is case sensitive. Also, make sure you read the descriptive text issued when logging onto a telnet site. Often, this text indicates the user id and password to be used by visitors. Keep in mind that not all telnet sites allow guest access. You may run across some sites for which a legitimate user id and password are required for access.
9.7 What type of performance can I expect when I connect to a telnet site?
Performance at telnet sites is subject not only to usage from the Internet, but also to local demand for resources. If many people access a site at the same time, performance can and will deteriorate quickly.
Be prepared to wait for the remote site to respond to your requests if you are using it during periods of peak demand.
9.8 How can I change my default telnet options?
There are a number of telnet options you may want to set. To see a listing of these options, type the control key plus the ']' once connected to a telnet site , and then type HELP SET. A telnet setting may be changed at the same prompt.
9.9 Can I telnet to a specific port?
Yes you may Telnet to a specific port. To connect to a specific Telnet site and a specific port, choose "Access a Specific Site" from the Telnet menu, and type the site name followed by a colon and the port number. For example, to Telnet to the "alexmud" MUD port, type:
alexmud.stacken.kth.se:4000
Port numbers below 1024 are reserved for predefined uses and those above 1024 are intended for site specific (public) uses. For security purposes, CompuServe will not allow Telnet access to ports below 1024.
9.10 How do I disconnect from a site during a telnet session?
Typically, a telnet site will provide menu prompts and instructions on how to "quit" or "exit" the site. Once you leave a telnet site, you will be returned to CompuServe. If you have difficulty exiting the site, press the control key plus the "]" key to return to CompuServe.
10. FILE TRANSFER PROTOCOL (FTP)
10.1 Is it possible to use anonymous FTP from CompuServe to other hosts on the Internet?
Yes. GO FTP will take you to CompuServe's outbound FTP area. From there, you can access remote host computers using "anonymous FTP" to download files.
Many times, the most popular host computers on the Internet are very busy and won't permit you to logon. Since many files are already available for downloading directly from CompuServe Forums and don't require the use of FTP, you may find it more productive to access the CompuServe File Finders and to search for the file you're looking for there.
10.2 What is FTP and how does it work?
FTP is an acronym for File Transfer Protocol.
CompuServe's FTP interface is a system for locating, and acquiring files from remote computers. We call these remote computers "sites". In a nutshell, the interface works by telling the FTP software which site you want to go to, gaining access to it by using a private password or logging in as an "anonymous" user, browsing the files available on that system, marking the files you want to download, and downloading the files into your computer.
10.3 Do I need special software to use CompuServe's FTP services?
You can access the FTP area with DOSCIM, MacCIM, WinCIM, or any version of CSi software. ASCII access to GO FTP is not possible.
The use of enhanced menus in FTP helps members find files more easily. A window of icons representing popular Internet file downloading sites includes logos illustrating each information source. Members looking for files from these popular sites simply click on the icon.
While you may use any version of the CompuServe Information Manager interface to access FTP you will need WinCIM V1.3 or higher, or MacCIM V2.4 or higher to see the iconic buttons.
Be sure that the "show graphic menus" option is enabled in the SPECIAL PREFERENCES menu of your CIM software. This option is enabled by default.
10.4 How do I use CompuServe's FTP services?
CompuServe has developed an easy to use interface for FTP so that most of these steps are as easy as clicking a mouse! Here's how it works:
You can select from a list of popular sites, or go directly to the site of your choice (if you know the Internet address of the site). If you choose a site from the menu, the address, user name and password will be automatically supplied. Some sites will allow you to log on as an "anonymous", or guest user.
Sites that allow anonymous login require you to enter a password. Although almost any password will work, most sites prefer that you enter your e-mail address so they can track who is accessing their files.
If the site is very busy, and is unable to give you access, it will let you know with a message to that effect, and ask you to try again later. In some cases, the site may be so overloaded that it can not even respond with the usual "I'm busy" message. In such cases, the FTP interface will inform you that the site is too busy and will give you a chance to quit or try again. In other cases, the site may not be up or may be inaccessible for other reasons.
Once you have gained access, you will be presented with a list of the directories and files available on the computer at the site you chose. You can move from directory to directory, and see which files are there. You may view GIF (graphics) and TXT (text) on-line so that you can decide whether or not you wish to download the file. Files not in this format may be downloaded and then viewed with the necessary software. Support for JPEG files will be implemented in a future release.
Once you discover files you want to download, just mark the box next to the file name. When you have marked all the files you want to download, select the download button. You will be prompted for the location on your own computer where the files will be saved.
When you are done, you can log out of that site and into another, or you can quit FTP.
10.5 May I access all anonymous FTP sites on the Internet through CompuServe?
Approximately 95% of the FTP sites on the Internet are accessible through the CompuServe FTP interface.
Some FTP sites are not compatible with CompuServe's FTP software because of the host software they are using. Use of the FTP "command line interface" may help. Additionally, watch the banner that's displayed when first connecting to the site. It may have helpful advice for using the site. For example, some sites may work better if the password is preceded by a "--" (a dash).
If you do find a site that is not compatible, please report this site to FTP Feedback.
10.6 How can I find files of interest to me on FTP sites?
Millions of files are available for download from the Internet, and finding the one that you want is not always an easy job. A couple of suggestions that might help:
Ask other users. This is often the most effective way to find things of interest. Others (especially in the CompuServe Internet New Users or CompuServe Internet Resources Forum) may know the exact location of the file for which you are searching.
Read the Index Files. Many sites maintain index files listing the names of all the files they provide. These are usually in the top level directory for the site, or in the "pub" directory.
Sometimes, the files are named "Index" or something similar. More often, they are named something like "ls-lR" (because they are the output of the UNIX command "ls -lR" used to create the file list). The index files are often compressed, in which case they will have a suffix to indicate the type of compression used (see below). To make use of the index, download it, uncompress it if necessary, view it off-line, and then download the files of interest.
Read the README file. Most sites have a README file containing important information about that site.
Often, these files contain valuable information on where to find files of interest.
10.7 Some of the files I want to download end in an extension of tar. What does this mean?
Many of FTP sites you may be visiting run the UNIX operating system. As a result, files may be archived and stored in a UNIX archive format. One common UNIX archive format is "tar". "Tar" stands for "tape archiver," because the tar program was originally used to copy a collection of files to magnetic tape. By convention, files that have been archived using tar usually have an extension of .tar.
10.8 How do I unarchive UNIX tar files?
The way in which a "tarred" file is "untarred" depends on the operating system you are using. Use the CompuServe File Finder to find a tar utility for your particular computer type.
There are DOS and Windows "untar" utilities in the Internet Resources Forum (GO INETRES).
10.9 Why do some files on remote FTP sites have no file size listed?
Actually, what you are seeing is an alias for the file that is stored at another location on the site. The host gives no information about the actual size of the alias, which is known as a symbolic link on UNIX systems. However, before you download the file, its size is determined so that you can decide whether you want to continue with the download or not.
10.10 Sometimes when I retrieve a file using FTP, I end up in a different directory. Why is this?
The reason is again an alias or a symbolic link. To retrieve the file it is necessary for the system to change directories to the directory the aliased file resides. Once the retrieve has finished you may find yourself in a different directory than you started.
Likewise, directories can be aliased to point to other directories. When you double-click on a directory, the system will take you to the directory to which the alias points.
10.11 Sometimes the error box appears when I try to change directories using FTP. What does this mean?
The most common reason this fails is that the directory is protected. Most of the time you will probably be logging in anonymously (look at the username field in the connect to site window). Many host sites allow different groups of users to have access to some files but not others. As you can guess, anonymous users typically are not allowed into system directories, the private user directories, and any other directory or file the host site wishes to block from the general public.
10.12 Is host site security the reason I can't download certain files?
Usually this is the case. The administrator at the remote host can block anonymous (or any other user for that matter) from both files and directories.
10.13 Is it possible to use anonymous FTP from an Internet host to access the forum libraries of CompuServe?
No, this is not possible. The only way to access the CompuServe Information Service's information content, including forum libraries, is to be a subscriber to the CompuServe service. Anonymous FTP to CompuServe is not supported.
However, Compuserve does have an FTP server at ftp.compuserve.com where you can obtain Compuserve software.
10.14 How can I search for files that might be available on the Internet?
First, before attempting to try to find files somewhere out on the Internet, we highly recommend that you first try using the "file finders" which are available to you on CompuServe. GO FILEFIND will permit you to search across all of the various CompuServe forums for files. You can search by keyword, filename, etc.
If you have not be successful finding the file you're looking for in the file finder, you can use one of the many search engines available on the internet. Two of the biggest are at http://www.yahoo.com and http://www.altavista.com
10.15 I've got a file with .hqx, .z, .gz, or .tar in the filename. How do I read it?
Connect to http://www.winzip.com/info.htm for information about file compression/decompression and to obtain the WinZip program.
Macintosh users should connect to http://www.aladdinsys.com/expander/index.html
10.16 Can I upload a file to a site using CompuServe's FTP?
Yes. First, you must have upload privileges. Many publicly-accessible sites allow anonymous users to upload to a directory called /incoming. If you are a registered user to an FTP site, you will probably have upload privileges.
After you GO FTP, select "Access a Specific Site." Enter the site name, your user name, and your password. When you connect to the site, you will be able to navigate the directories. Go to the directory where you want to upload. Click on the "Send" button. You will be prompted for the file on your PC that you want to upload.
10.17 I need to access a site that I've been told requires me to enter some special commands. How can I do that?
Connect to CompuServe and GO FTP. After selecting "Connect to a Specific Site", select the options button and change from windowed, to command line mode. Then enter your site information and click OK. When you connect to the site, you will be presented with a windowed command line interface where you can enter unix commands directly.
11.1 I notice some of the files in the forum libraries are compressed and have filenames ending in .ZIP. Where can I find the utility program to decompress these files?
For PC users using DOS or any version of Windows, the latest version of PKZIP/PKUNZIP is available in The Internet New Users Forum "Froum Info" library [1] as filename PK204G.EXE. You can find instructions on downloading, installing and using it in the file HOWTOZIP.TXT.
For Windows users who prefer the GUI interface, the latest version of WinZip is available for either Windows 3.1x or Windows 95. Search the "Internet Beginners" library in the Internet New Users Forum for the keyword 'WINZIP' to find the files.
For Macintosh users, the latest version of an excellent Shareware Zip utility is available in the Internet New Users Forum "Forum Info" library, LIB 1 as filename ZIPIT.SIT.
11.2 I am having problems with my Internet software. Who do I call for support?
No one party can support the thousands of programs in circulation. Please look at the literature, online help (press F1), or README file that came with your software for support options. Nearly all software vendors offer some kind of support on their Web site.
Try one CompuServe's support forums for friendly advice. Just remember that most CompuServe forums are operated by volunteers, not employees of software publishers.
11.3 How can I best use a CompuServe forum to my fullest advantage?
There's an excellent file on CompuServe that you can download and read that gives a down-to-earth explanation of how to best utilise the message boards in a CompuServe forum. Search the "How do I..." library in the Internet New Users Forum (GO INETNEW) for MSGBOARD.TXT and download/read this document. The insight this file gives you will be well worth it, and will save you on-line time.
11.4 How do I download a file from a forum library?
I. Using WinCIM:
A. Set options before going online. Select Special from the menu, then Preferences, then Forums. Make sure these boxes are checked:
+---------------------------------------+ | X Show Toolbox | | X Show Message Section Numbers | | X Show Library Section Numbers | | | | File List Contents | | | | O Title X File Size | | X Access Count | | @ File Name X Submission Date | | X Submitter's ID | +----------------------------------------+
The other boxes are not relevant to downloading. Click on OK
B. Go online and go to the forum.
C. When you know the exact name and library section of the file to download:
1. Click on the icon showing a bookshelf and a hand.
2. You will see a dialog box containing all the library sections. Select the desired section.
3. You will see a dialog box containing all the names of all the files in that section, newest first. Scroll through the list until you find the desired file. Click on it.
4. If you wish to view the file description, click on the Description button. If you want to download immediately, click on Retrieve.
5. You will see a dialog box asking you for a file name and directory for your PC. Generally you should click on OK. The file will be in C:\CSERVE\DOWNLOAD with the same name it had in the CompuServe library.
6. After you click on OK, a dialog box will display the progress of the download.
7. When the download is finished, you may download another file or proceed to step E.
D. When you do not know the exact file name or section number:
1. Click on the icon showing a bookshelf and a magnifying glass.
2. You will see a dialog box containing all the library sections. In front of each section name should be a checked box. If not, click on All.
3. Fill in the file name (wildcards permitted) or keyword(s). You may limit the date range to make the search quicker. Click on Ok.
4. You will see a dialog box containing the names of all the files that match your search criteria. Scroll through the list until you find the desired file. Click on it.
5. If you wish to view the file description, click on the Description button. If you want to download immediately, click on Retrieve.
6. You will see a dialog box asking you for a file name and directory for your PC. Generally you should click on OK. The file will be in C:\CSERVE\DOWNLOAD with the same name it had in the CompuServe library.
7. After you click on OK, a dialog box will display the progress of the download.
8. When the download is finished, you may download another file.
E. When you have finished, you can perform another forum operation or click on the Exit or Disconnect icon.
II. Using Compuserve 3.x or 4.x (classic view.)
Click on the button marked 'File Libraries' on the left of your screen.
Click on the tab marked 'Search.'
Type the name of the file in the box next to 'Find Files Whose Filename Is...'
Hi-lite the filename as displayed in the next screen.
Click on the 'Retrieve' button.
Click on the 'Save' button.
If you don't know the filename do the above but change the option to:
'Find Files Whose Keywords Contain...' and type in 1 or more keywords that describe the
subject of interest.
To look at all the files in a section of the libraries, click on the File Libraries button, then the Read button, hi-lite the section of interest and click on the Open button.
III. Using Compuserve 4.x (web view) or when using the web version of Compuserve.
Click on the green 'Files' button at the top of the screen.
Type 1 or more keywords that describe the subject of interest in the Search box and click
on the Find It button.
Click on the filename you want to save as displayed on the left of your screen.
Click on the link To Save File at the right of your screen using the right button on your
mouse.
Choose Save Link As from the menu that appears.
Click on the Save button.
To find a file using the filename click on the link to Expert search in the Search box
Make sure Find Files With Filename is selected on the next screen and type the filename
into the box and click on the Find It button.
Carry on as before.
To look at all the files in a section of the libraries click on the Files button, click on View Sections and then click on the link to the section of your choice.
[End FAQ]