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From: nac@sirius.com (Nancy Cedeno)
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Subject: alt.winsock FAQ
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Date: 16 Jul 1996 04:51:35 GMT
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Last-modified: 1996/4/15
URL: http://www.well.com/user/nac/alt-winsock-faq.html
================================================
The alt.winsock FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
================================================
Updated April 15, 1996
----------------------
Table of Contents
I. The alt.winsock Newsgroup
1) What Is This Newsgroup For?
2) What Can I Post Here?
3) What Should I Not Post Here?
II. What is a WinSock?
1) Where Did WinSock Come From?
A) Berkeley Sockets
2) How does it work?
3) What do I need to run WinSock applications?
III. What Are SLIP and PPP?
IV. What WinSocks Are Available and Where Can I Get Them?
1) Trumpet Winsock
A) Which MTU, TCP RWIN, and TCP MSS settings are best?
B) Registration Problems
2) Chameleon Sampler
3) Microsoft TCP/IP-32
4) NetCruiser
5) Do I Need This Stuff Now That Windows 95 Is Out?
6) IBM OS/2 Warp
V. Common WinSock Problems
1) "Call to Undefined Dynalink"
2) COMM Overrun
3) Can't Find C:\TEMP Directory" (Netscape)
4) Netscape 1.1's Window Doesn't Open Properly
5) How Do I Cure Various Errors in WinTalk?
6) How Do I Cure Various Errors in News Xpress?
7) "More Original Lines than New Lines" Error in a Newsreader?
8) GPF Errors in WSIRC
9) I have SLIP Emulation and DCC won't work in IRC.
10) "________ Did Not Call WSCLEANUP"
VI. Can I Run Cool Stuff Like Netscape From My Unix Shell Account?
1) The Internet Adapter (tm)
A) I Use Netcom and TIA -- Why Won't My Newsreader Work?
2) Twinsock (Troy's Winsock)
3) SLiRP
4) Remsock
VII. What's the Best __________ Application?
1) Lists, Lists, Lists
2) Windows 95 Software
3) Shareware is Not Freeware
VIII. Even More Information
1) Application FAQs
A) Free Agent
B) Netscape
C) News Xpress
D) WinVN
2) Other WinSock Resources
A) #Winsock on IRC (EFFNet)
B) #Winsock FAQ
3) TCP/IP
4) Windows Data Communication
5) TIA and Trumpet Winsock
6) SLIP Emulation
7) WinSock Developer Information
A) Winsock Programming FAQ by John Thomas Willis
B) WinSock 1.1 Standard
C) WinSock 2.0 Standard (in development)
D) Microsoft's WinSock Developer Info
E) Usenet
F) Stardust Technologies WinSock Resource Page
8) Other alt.winsock.* newsgroups
9) Winsock Newsgroups in the comp.os.ms-windows Hierarchy
10) UUEncoding and MIME Encoding Binary Files
IX. Where to Find the FAQ
X. Administrivia
------------------------------------------------------------------------
I. The alt.winsock Newsgroup
============================
1) What Is This Newsgroup For?
------------------------------
alt.winsock is an unmoderated newsgroup for general discussion of the
WinSock (Windows Sockets) API and the myriad applications that run
under it. Postings range from questions on how to setup a WinSock
application to more advanced topics concerning Internet protocols and
programming. This group is also open to both newcomers and advanced
programmers alike. Unfortunately, this openness has made alt.winsock a
very high volume newsgroup. That is why this FAQ was created. If you
have a question or suggestion, please do not be afraid to post it.
Flames have never been a problem and people will usually answer what
seem like the dumbest questions. But, in order to reduce the volume on
this newsgroup, we ask that people consult this FAQ prior to posting a
question. We've put together an abundance of information which we'll
try to keep as up to date as possible.
2) What Can I Post Here?
------------------------
Due to the general nature of alt.winsock, there really aren't any
restrictions on what can or cannot be posted. However, some important
points should be kept in mind.
* Be very specific in your questions.
People will always be willing to help out. But they can't help you
if they don't know what you're talking about. If the problem
concerns your computer rather than a remote site, remember to
state which WinSock you are using (e.g., Trumpet, Chameleon), what
type of computer you have, and whether or not you are using TIA.
* If you are replying to a post, decide whether or not the whole
group needs to see your reply. Sometimes, many people could use
your information or answer your question. Other times, it may be
better to simply e-mail your reply to a specific person or persons.
* When announcing a new program or new version, please announce what
site it's available at and provide details about the program.
Also, it is common courtesy to not only ask questions, but to answer
some as well. That is what keeps this group functioning. So, if
someone has a question that you know the answer to, please take a
little time to reply.
3) What Should I Not Post Here?
-------------------------------
Most importantly do not ask off-topic questions. The most frequent
off-topic questions are those concerning helper applications for
WWW browsers. Posts regarding graphics or sound viewers should be
posted to alt.binaries.multimedia.d, alt.binaries.pictures.utilities,
alt.binaries.sounds.utilities, or another more appropriate newsgroup.
Never post binaries to alt.winsock. In general, binaries should only
be posted to alt.binaries.* groups. Even if you believe that you have
found or written a great program that you think everyone in alt.winsock
will want, please do not post a binary to the newsgroup. Simply post a
message that gives a description of the program and tell people where
it can be found.
Advertisers should be very careful when considering whether they
should post on alt.winsock. alt.winsock is NOT a forum for
advertising. But, if your product is a WinSock application, or
might be of interest to WinSock users, please announce yourself as an
advertiser and give an accurate description of your product.
Before you post any generic questions, please check the FAQ.
Please do not post any questions that can be answered in the FAQ. Many
of the routine questions include "What Telnet programs are out there?"
"Where can I find xxxx?" or other such questions. Checking the FAQ
first will reduce traffic and get you a quicker answer as well.
II. What is a WinSock?
=======================
WinSock is short for Windows Sockets. Today's most popular Internet
applications for Microsoft Windows and IBM OS/2 are developed according
to the WinSock standard.
1) Where Did WinSock Come From?
-------------------------------
WinSock is short for Windows Sockets, and is used as the interface
between TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol), and
Windows. TCP/IP has been called "the language of the Internet" and
rightly so--most of the Internet is comprised of systems that use TCP/IP
to talk to one another.
The WinSock specification was born at one of the "Birds of a Feather"
sessions at the Interop conference in Fall of 1991. The current
version of the specification is 1.1, but work continues on the WinSock
2.0 specification, which is scheduled for completion mid-1995.
A) Berkeley Sockets
-------------------
Berkeley Sockets is the standard programming model for TCP/IP
networking under Unix. Windows Sockets was designed to be very
similar to Berkeley Sockets so that those experienced in programming
with sockets in Unix will be able to easily make the transition to
Windows Sockets. However, there are a few deviations in the WinSock
standard that take advantage of Windows-specific features not
supported in Unix. For more information, see the following:
ftp://ftp.microsoft.com/bussys/winsock/spec11/winsock.txt
2) How does it work?
--------------------
WinSock is a .DLL (Dynamic Link Library) and runs under Windows 3.x,
Windows for Workgroups, Windows NT, and Windows 95. The WINSOCK.DLL is
the interface to TCP/IP and, from there, on out to the Internet.
(TCP/IP stands for "Transmission Control Protocol / Internet
Protocol," the "language" that computers on the Internet use to
communicate with each other.)
The easiest way to show how it works is with a diagram:
WinSock-compliant Application (e.g., Netscape, WinVN)
|
WINSOCK.DLL
|
TCP/IP
|
Modem or Network card
|
Network and beyond
WINSOCK.DLL actually acts as a "layer" between your WinSock
applications and your TCP/IP stack. Your WinSock applications tell
WINSOCK.DLL what to do, WINSOCK.DLL translates these commands to your
TCP/IP stack, and your TCP/IP stack passes them on to the Internet!
But the most important thing for you to remember about WINSOCK.DLL is
that the WINSOCK.DLL you're using must match the version of TCP/IP
that you're running. Don't assume that because all WinSocks are called
WINSOCK.DLL that they're all the same--they're not. So, for example,
if I'm using Microsoft's TCP/IP, I can't use Trumpet Winsock.
Similarly, if I'm running on a SLIP connection, and I want to switch
from Chameleon Sampler's Winsock to Trumpet Winsock, I first need to
remove Chameleon's version of WINSOCK.DLL before installing the new
one.
If you end up with multiple versions of WINSOCK.DLL floating around
your hard disk, you're asking for trouble. Before you come screaming
at alt.winsock, take a couple of minutes to check your hard disk for
multiple WINSOCK.DLLs.
For more information, see NCSA's winsock.dll page on the Web at:
http://www.ncsa.uiuc.edu/SDG/Software/WinMosaic/winsocks.htm
3) What do I need to run WinSock applications?
----------------------------------------------
Using WinSock applications to access the Internet requires:
- A suitable connection to the Internet.
- A TCP/IP stack (which includes it's own WINSOCK.DLL).
Your connection to the Internet may take the form of a direct
connection via a network card or a dialup account using a modem. Most
users reading this FAQ will be using the latter. You'll probably need
to acquire an account with an Internet service provider (or else
get an account through work or school, if available) -- either a
SLIP or PPP account (these are protocols for communicating with the
Internet via modem; either is fine, though PPP is generally preferred),
or a shell account which allows you to run a SLIP emulator (covered in
Section VI.)
The TCP/IP stack you use depends upon your needs. Some operating
systems include stacks, such as Microsoft Windows 95 and IBM OS/2. For
other operating systems, like Microsoft Windows 3.1/3.11 or Microsoft
Windows for Workgroups 3.11, you'll need to add a stack. Section IV.
of this FAQ covers some of the most popular. Some are free, some are
shareware (if you continue to use them after an evaluation period, you
must pay a small fee), and others are commercial. Some include no
WinSock applications, while others include all the basic apps you'll
need.
A fast computer, 8MB or more of memory, and a high speed modem for
dialup connections (at least 14.4k) are also recommended.
And, of course, you'll need some WinSock applications. Section VII.
points to lists of WinSock applications available.
III. What Are SLIP and PPP?
============================
There are several different ways individual PC users can get access to
the Internet. Of all the access methods available, SLIP (Serial Line
Interface Protocol) and PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol) accounts give
you the most options, as far as applications are concerned.
SLIP has been around since the mid-1980s. It was originally designed
to allow Unix machines to connect to one another over the phone. It
essentially "tricks" your computer into thinking that its modem
connection is a dedicated network connection (the kind you would
usually need a network card for).
PPP is based on SLIP, but it is a more sophisticated protocol. It
contains additional error checking and authentication, which makes it
more reliable than SLIP. For most PC users, there really isn't much
difference between the two. Because PPP is more reliable and is
generally accepted to be the standard of the future, you should get
PPP if you're offered a choice between the two.
WinSock works great with SLIP and PPP. Most WinSock versions come with
dialer programs to do the actual connection over your modem.
IV. What WinSocks Are Available and Where Can I Get Them?
=========================================================
1) Trumpet Winsock
------------------
Peter Tattam's Trumpet Winsock is one of the most popular WINSOCK.DLLs
available. It includes both WINSOCK.DLL and a dialer program to get
you connected if you're using SLIP or PPP. Versions 2.0b and 2.0e have
been replaced by version 2.1. Version 2.0b is still available from:
ftp://ftp.cica.indiana.edu/pub/pc/win3/winsock/twsk20b.zip
ftp://ftp.coast.net/SimTel/win3/winsock/twsk20b.zip
Version 2.1 is still in development. Recent developments have improved
PPP performance and fixed scripting errors. Like version 2.0, version
2.1 supports both SLIP and PPP. A fairly powerful scripting language
is also included for login, logout, and other actions. Trumpet Winsock
is shareware. After 30 days, you must register (international: US$25,
Australia: AU$25).
ftp://b-box.trumpet.com.au/pub/winsock/twsk21f.zip
Mirrors:
ftp://ftp.synapse.net/contrib/trumpet/winsock/twsk21f.zip
ftp://ftp.coast.net/SimTel/vendors/trumpet/winsock/twsk21f.zip
Make sure you read the README.1ST file if you're upgrading from Trumpet
Winsock 2.0x.
There is a beta version of Trumpet Winsock for Windows 95. For more
information, see:
http://www.trumpet.com.au/wsk/faq/win95.htm
More Information:
http://www.trumpet.com.au/wsk/winsock.htm
A) Which MTU, TCP RWIN, and TCP MSS settings are best?
------------------------------------------------------
Unfortunately, there isn't a simple answer to this question.
It really depends on what kind of connection you have. Ethernet,
SLIP, PPP, and CSLIP all require different settings. Also, your
Internet provider may require that you use certain values. But there
are a few rules that may help you find the best values.
First check which values your Internet provider recommends. These
values will generally be the best. However, not all providers have
experience with Trumpet Winsock, or the values they give you may
still need additional adjustment for optimal speed and reliability.
The INSTALL.DOC that comes with Trumpet Winsock also lists a few
general rules for setting these values. MTU should be TCP MSS+40.
TCP RWIN should be 3 or 4 times TCP MSS. It suggests starting with
the following values: MTU=256, TCP RWIN=848, TCP MSS=212. However,
these are only general rules and there may be better values for
your particular situation.
Peter Tattam also believes that MTU should be pushed up to 1500 if
supported by your provider, although many providers recommend
setting the MTU at 1006.
He also recommends that you set the values for SLIP/PPP as follows:
TCP MSS=512, TCP RWIN=2048. CSLIP/CPPP values should be: TCP
MSS=212, TCP RWIN=848.
Ethernet and TIA users should use the following values: MTU=1500,
TCP RWIN=4096, TCP MSS=1460.
B) Registration Problems
------------------------
One of the biggest problems Trumpet has been having is responding
to user registrations. Be patient because they are busy. But if you
find that they never respond, send e-mail to
registrations@trumpet.com.au. Give your full name and Trumpet
should respond promptly with your registration number.
More Information:
Trumpet Software International Home Page:
http://www.trumpet.com.au/
2) Chameleon Sampler
---------------------
Chameleon Sampler is another popular WinSock. Internet Chameleon is
NetManage's heavy-duty full-featured commercial package. Chameleon
Sampler is a freeware package that includes both SLIP and PPP support.
In addition, it also includes basic FTP, Telnet, Mail, and Ping
clients. Like Trumpet, it also includes its own dialer and has proven
itself to be stable and compatible. It is included with several books.
More Information:
http://www.netmanage.com/netmanage/products/chamsamp.html
3) Microsoft TCP/IP-32
----------------------
This is Microsoft's stack for use with Windows NT or Windows for
Workgroups 3.11. Unfortunately, this stack does NOT support dialup
connections. Free for owners of Windows NT or Windows for Workgroups.
Available from:
ftp://ftp.microsoft.com/peropsys/windows/Public/tcpip/
4) NetCruiser
-------------
NetCruiser probably doesn't belong on this list, as it's not 100%
WinSock compatible. NetCruiser includes a proprietary stack and
suite of applications included with SLIP accounts from Netcom (a
large Internet service provider), the latest version has added
*some* WinSock compatibility. NetCruiser itself works only with Netcom.
Compatibility Notes: WinSock applications known to have difficulty with
NetCruiser include WinTalk and mIRC.
More Information:
http://www.netcom.com/faq/
http://www.netcom.com/
5) Do I Need This Stuff Now That Windows 95 Is Out?
----------------------------------------------------
Nope. Windows 95 includes all the 32-bit TCP/IP and WinSock drivers
that you'll need. And, it includes its own "Dial-Up Networking" that
lets you use SLIP or PPP.
A lot of Windows 95 beta users have installed Trumpet Winsock and are
using it quite happily.
More Information:
http://www.microsoft.com/Windows/
http://www.calamistrum.com/Win95Soft/barry/wn95slip.html
http://www.trumpet.com.au/wsk/faq/win95.htm
http://www-leland.stanford.edu/~llurch/win95netbugs/faq.html
6) IBM OS/2 Warp
----------------
IBM's OS/2 Warp operating system includes a stack and a suite of
applications that have been well-received. Aside from the included
applications, native WinSock software for OS/2 is sparse. Most
Windows WinSock applications run well. Included with the operating
system (street price approx. US$70-140 depending upon
configuration)
More Information:
http://www.austin.ibm.com/pspinfo/warp.html
http://pclt.cis.yale.edu/pclt/winworld/os2.htm
V. Common WinSock Problems
==========================
1) "Call to Undefined Dynalink"
---------------------------------------------------
Although this error message can be caused by a number of different
problems, as far as WinSock users are concerned, it probably has to do
with having multiple versions of WINSOCK.DLL hanging around your hard
disk. To solve this problem, make sure that you do not have multiple
versions of WINSOCK.DLL in your PATH. If so, remove or rename the
versions you're not using. If you only have a single version of
WINSOCK.DLL, it may not be in the path. Simply put it in
\WINDOWS\SYSTEM or add your WinSock's directory to the PATH statement
in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
2) COMM Overrun
---------------
This error occurs when the modem goes too fast for the COM port and
Windows. There are a couple of things you have to check. First, if
you've got an external modem running at 14.4kbps or above, make sure
you're connecting it to a COM port that uses the UART 16550a (or some
1655xx variant) chip. You can check this using the MSD.EXE program that
comes with Windows.
Now, once you've got that verified, you need to replace the old
COMM.DRV driver that came with Windows 3.x, because it was designed to
work with the older UART 8550 chip. (Windows for Workgroups 3.11
users don't need to worry about this.) The two most popular
replacement COMM drivers are CyberCom and WFXComm. Documentation is
included and they can be found at the following sites:
ftp://ftp.coast.net/simtel/win3/commprog/cybercom.zip
ftp://ftp.winsite.com/pub/pc/win3/misc/wfxcomm.zip
Also, you need to edit your SYSTEM.INI file to include the following
statements in your [386Enh] section:
com1FIFO=1
com1buffer=1024
comboosttime=8
(If you're using a COM port other than 1, change the com1 to com2,
etc.)
Although it is quite out of date, There is a FAQ that provides a more
in-depth discussion of this subject:
http://www.cis.ohio-state.edu:80/hypertext/faq/usenet/windows-com-
faq/faq.html
3) Can't Find C:\TEMP Directory" (Netscape)
-------------------------------------------
Most Windows users have their temporary directory set to
C:\WINDOWS\TEMP -- but Netscape assumes that you use C:\TEMP unless
you tell it otherwise.
To correct this problem, do the following:
1. In Netscape, go to the "Options" menu. Choose "Preferences."
2. At the very top of the dialog there will be a drop-down listbox.
Click it, and choose "Directories, Applications, and News."
3. Change C:\TEMP to C:\WINDOWS\TEMP (or whatever your actual
temporary directory is) and click "OK."
Users of Windows or Windows for Workgroups can determine their
temporary directory by examining their AUTOEXEC.BAT file. The line
will look similar to this:
SET TEMP=c:\windows\temp\
If no such line exists, you'll want to add one. Make sure that the
indicated directory exists.
4) Netscape 1.1's Window Doesn't Open Properly
----------------------------------------------
Although this bug has been fixed in the beta releases of Netscate 1.2,
users of Netscape 1.1 may experience problems with window sizing.
In Netscape 1.1, there is a bug that may cause the Netscape window to
open off-center and partially off the screen. Unfortunately, this was
not fixed in the official release of Netscape 1.1N.
There are two methods to improve this:
1. Resize the window with the mouse (do not maximize). Then save the
window size by clicking "Save Options" under the "Options" menu.
2. Directly edit the NETSCAPE.INI file. This method generally works
best. It also enables you to see what the problem is. Using an
example of a 640x480 monitor, Netscape 1.1 gave the NETSCAPE.INI
file the following default values:
[Main Window]
x=-4
y=-4
width=648
height=488
Change the settings to:
[Main Window]
x=0
y=0
width=640
height=480
5) How Do I Cure Various Errors In WinTalk?
-------------------------------------------
Depending upon the version of WinTalk you use, you may either:
1) have trouble running the program, with frequent "gethostname()"
or similar error messages, or
2) the program may appear to work properly until you attempt to talk
with someone, and you receive a "They don't recognize us!" error.
The solution depends upon the way you're accessing the Internet. If
you're not sure which the of the below you're using, ask your provider
for help.
If you're on a SLIP or PPP connection with a permanent IP Address:
------------------------------------------------------------------
Your machine may not be listed in your provider's DNS. Ask your
provider to add it. If your account is new, keep in mind that it
may take several days before your machine name is in the DNS, at
which point WinTalk should work properly.
If you're on a SLIP or PPP connection with Dynamic IP Addressing:
-----------------------------------------------------------------
It's very likely that some, if not all, of the IP addresses in the
dynamic IP pool are not registered in the DNS. Ask your provider to
please do this, if possible.
Emulated SLIP (TIA, etc.):
--------------------------
WinTalk is incompatible with emulated SLIP. Sorry, there are no
workarounds at this time.
6) How Do I Cure Various Errors in News Xpress?
-----------------------------------------------
If you receive a "No Authorization" or similar error in News Xpress,
do the following:
1. Choose "Setup" from the "Config" menu.
2. Delete any information you typed into the "Username" and "Password"
fields. Click "OK."
7) "More Original Lines than New Lines" Error in a Newsreader?
---------------------------------------------------------------
If you receive a "More Original Lines than New Lines" or "More Quoted
Text than Original Text," or another similar error when trying to
follow-up to a Usenet news article, your newsreader program is not
to blame.
This is an option set by your system administrator to prevent users
from sending articles which contain, for example, 100 lines of quoted
text with "I agree" added to the bottom. Such articles are considered
a nuisance. Consider editing the quoted text for clarity.
Some users adjust their newsreader to use an unusual quote character.
In some cases, this can fool the news server software and thwart your
provider's options. Please be aware that this is a blatant
circumvention of your provider's policies, and may result in loss of
your Internet access. This type of action is inadvisable.
If the quoted text limitation really bothers you, try *politely*
asking your provider to change this option in their news server
software.
8) GPF Errors in WSIRC
----------------------
While WSIRC does have some stability problems, some releases also have
a bug which allows other IRC users to easily cause WSIRC to crash
(GPF, General Protection Fault). In Version 1.4e and before, a simple
null CTCP command is all it takes.
However, Versions 1.4f and later, including the recently released
Version 2.0 have apparently fixed this problem.
If you're receiving frequent GPF errors with WSIRC, you may wish to
update or switch to another IRC client.
9) I have SLIP Emulation and DCC won't work in IRC
--------------------------------------------------
Like Talk, DCC will not completely work with SLIP emulation. Although
it is a feature of IRC, DCC connects directly between two computers.
Therefore, it requires both computers to have an IP address for full
functionality.
Fortunately, some features of DCC will work. You will be able to
receive a DCC Chat request and DCC Get will also work. But you will be
unable to initiate a DCC Chat or use DCC Send.
10) "________ Did Not Call WSCLEANUP"
Fill in the blank -- it can be any WinSock app. Not a problem,
really. All it means is that the app in question did not tell WinSock
that is was finished with the socket it was using.
VI. Can I Run Cool Stuff Like Netscape From My Unix Shell Account?
==================================================================
If you're limited to a Unix shell account, you may still be able to take
advantage of Winsock applications. Several SLIP Emulators are available
which "convert" standard shell accounts into makeshift SLIP accounts.
Note: Many providers do not allow you to run a SLIP emulator. Some are
concerned about system resources; others want you to buy a real
SLIP or PPP account (which are almost universally more expensive).
If your provider bans use of SLIP emulators, using one may result
in loss of your Internet access. (Yes, system administrators can
tell if you're using a SLIP emulator even if you change the
executable's file name or size.)
1) The Internet Adapter (tm)
----------------------------
The Internet Adapter (TIA) is an innovative product by Cyberspace
Development, Inc. that allows Unix shell users to simulate a SLIP
connection over a Unix shell account. PPP is not yet supported, but it
is expected to be included when v2.0 is released. TIA is installed on
the Unix host (either in your home directory, if you're a single user,
or with the other Unix executables on the system if it's a site-
licensed copy provided by your provider). When you run TIA on your
Unix host, you can then run WinSock applications on your own machine.
(Note that you still need to install WinSock on your PC.)
For most applications, there is no difference between a true SLIP
account and TIA. But there are a few drawbacks. Because TIA users do
not have a real, unique IP address, applications that require this
(some DCC Chat, Talk, CuSeeMe, Ping, etc.) will not work. Also,
servers, in general, will not work. The latest beta version does have
a port redirection feature, but TIA is not meant for server use. TIA
requires that you have an "8-bit clean" connection to the Internet.
Check the TIA FAQs for more information.
TIA currently costs U.S. $25.00 for a single-site license. They also
have 14-day temporary licenses available. Version 1.04 has recently
been moved from beta to official release in preperation for the
release of Version 2.0, which is currently in closed beta testing.
All future upgrades will be free to registered users.
More information:
http://marketplace.com:80/tia/tiahome.html
e-mail: tia-info@marketplace.com
A) I use Netcom and TIA -- Why Won't My Newsreader Work?
--------------------------------------------------------
So far, Netcom is the only large provider that has had this
problem. Netcom does not allow its users to access the NNTP server.
But there is a way around this. A free product also found at:
ftp://marketplace.com/tia
allows the newsreader to access news off the disk. This program is
installed, just like TIA, in your Unix shell. It is executed at the
same time as TIA by executing "tia -p:119 nntpd." There is also
good documentation in the tiabeta directory.
More Information:
ftp://marketplace.com/tia/readme.nntpd
2) Twinsock (Troy's Winsock)
----------------------------
Troy Rollo's Twinsock is a freeware alternative to TIA. Unlike TIA,
Twinsock includes both a host program to be placed on your shell
account and its own special stack. Setup can be easier than TIA,
since the stack requires no special configuration. Note that Twinsock
will work even without an 8-bit clean connection, though the 6-bit
mode is slower.
See the FAQ (under More Information, below) for information about
FTPing the latest compiled versions for various hosts. You must FTP
the complete package (see below) to obtain the required stack, which
is compiled. Source code for the host program and the stack is
included.
More Information:
http://www_ug.eecg.utoronto.ca/~luk/tsfaq.html
FTP Sites:
ftp://ftp.coast.net/simtel/win3/winsock/twnsck14.zip
ftp://archive.orst.edu/pub/mirrors/simtel/win3/winsock/twnsck14.zip
ftp://micros.hensa.ac.uk/mirrors/simtel/win3/winsock/twnsck14.zip
3) SLiRP
--------
A recent addition to the SLIP emulation scene, Danny Gasparovski's
SLiRP is quickly gaining momentum. It's similar to TIA, but doesn't
include a stack, although it is free. No compiled versions are
available yet; you'll have to compile it yourself. Available from:
ftp://peace.wit.com/danjo/slirp/slirp-0.9o.tar.gz
ftp://blitzen.canberra.edu.au/pub/slirp/slirp-0.95d.tar.gz
More Information:
http://blitzen.canberra.edu.au/slirp
4) Remsock
----------
Oslonett's Remsock is a little-used SLIP emulator similar to Twinsock
in that it includes its own stack. Much of the documentation is in
Norwegian. Aside from compatibility problems, Remsock's biggest
failing is that it's "crippleware." It stops working 15 minutes into
each connection until you pay the registration fee ($15). Available
from:
ftp://kids.kotel.co.kr/pub/network/remsock.zip
VII. What's the Best ________ Application?
==========================================
There are currently over a hundred WinSock applications out there. We
won't try to tell you which one is the best one for your needs. To a
certain extent, you're going to have to figure that out for yourself.
1) Lists, Lists, Lists
----------------------
Fortunately, there are several excellent resources out there that can
provide you with pointers to (and evaluations of) most of the Internet
programs available on the Internet for Windows users.
There are several regularly updated lists of WinSock applications. If
you're looking for something, try these lists first. You can FTP the
files directly through either of the Web-based lists. Here are the most
popular and useful:
- Stroud's Consummate Winsock Apps List (updated regularly)
http://cws.wilmington.net/cwsa.html
- The Ultimate Collection of Winsock Compliant Software
http://www.tucows.com/
- Ed Sinkovits' Winter List (updated weekly)
http://www.mbnet.mb.ca/winter/index.html
or
ftp://ftp.coast.net/SimTel/win3/winsock/winter15.zip
- Craig Larsen's Winsock Application FAQ (complete list of all
Winsock applications)
http://www.primenet.com/~larsenc/faqhtml.html
- Stardust Technologies, Inc. WinSock Page
http://www.winsock.com
2) Windows 95 Software
----------------------
Finding WinSock applications for Windows 95 is much more difficult
than finding software for Windows 3.x. Fortunately, there is a
new software archive that exclusively lists Windows 95 applications:
- Net Ex Unofficial Windows 95 Software Archive
http://www.netex.net/w95/index.html
- Windows95.com
http://www.windows95.com
3) Shareware is Not Freeware
----------------------------
The WinSock community has been very fortunate to have many freeware
applications available. For this, everyone should be grateful to the
many authors who have put many countless hours writing these programs.
However, not all winsock applications are freeware. Many are
shareware, and shareware is NOT the same as freeware. Please use your
conscience. If you try out a shareware program and find it to be
useful, send in the registration fee. The prices are usually quite
reasonable. Moreover, it encourages and enables further development of
many great applications.
VIII. Even More Information
============================
1) Application FAQs
-------------------
There are a growing number of FAQs and an abundance of README files
available for many individual WinSock applications. Several FAQs are
listed below. The following site also provides a fairly descent
selection of README files and other text documents covering a variety
of WinSock applications.
ftp://ftp.best.com/pub/schaft/Internet_Apps/TXT_FILES
A) Free Agent
-------------
Free Agent Frequently Asked Questions:
http://www.forteinc.com/agent/csfaq.htm
B) Netscape
-----------
Netscape Navigator - Frequently Asked Questions:
http://home.netscape.com/eng/mozilla/1.1/faq.html
C) News Xpress
--------------
Brian H. Smither has recently written the News Xpress FAQ. The
author of News Xpress has also indicated that he plans to include
the FAQ with releases of News Xpress as well.
NewsXpress FAQ
http://www.malch.com/nxfaq.html
D) WinVN
--------
The WinVN FAQ is available both from the sites below and
is also included with recent versions of WinVN.
HTML Version:
Frequently Asked Questions about the WinVN Newsreader:
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/software/winvn/faq/WINVNFAQ-Contents.html
ASCII Version:
Frequently Asked Questions about the WinVN Newsreader:
ftp://ftp.ksc.nasa.gov/pub/winvn/docs/winvnfaq.txt
2) Other WinSock Resources
--------------------------
A) #Winsock on IRC (EFFNet)
---------------------------
The IRC channel #Winsock was created by Keith Veseleny (IRC nick:
VC). Participants discuss the latest WinSock applications, assist
new users, and are a friendly bunch.
For those unfamiliar with IRC bots, bots are special computer
programs which look like other IRC users and can respond to requests.
Two bots on #Winsock provide help and files, 24 hours a day.
Mookbot is #Winsock's help bot (portions of this FAQ are based on the
help file first created for Mookbot). Type "/msg mookbot help" for
answers to common questions.
IgBot is #Winsock's file bot. Many of the latest WinSock
applications can be downloaded from the bot using DCC file
transfer. Type "/msg igbot files" to see a list of available files
and "/msg igbot help filetransfer" for file transfer instructions.
B) #Winsock FAQ
---------------
This is the faq that grew out of the IRC channel #Winsock. Much of
the information in this FAQ has been incorporated here, although it
does cover a few issues that this FAQ does not address.
http://mars.superlink.net/user/mook/winfaq.html
3) TCP/IP
---------
Although similar to alt.winsock, the
comp.os.ms-windows.networking.tcp-ip newsgroup is less crowded and
tends to discuss issues concerning TCP/IP with MS Windows itself
rather than the usually application-based discussion on alt.winsock.
The comp.os.ms-windows.networking.tcp-ip FAQ can be found at:
http://www.cis.ohio-state.edu/hypertext/faq/usenet/ibmpc-tcp-ip-faq/
top.html
4) Windows Data Communication
-----------------------------
The most important part of your SLIP or PPP Internet connection is, of
course, your telephone link. Malcolm Hoar has written a modem guide
that includes information to help you troubleshoot an unstable
connection. It also has several links to other sites with more
information on modems.
http://www.best.com/~malch/comfaq.html
5) SLiRP/TIA and Trumpet Winsock
--------------------------------
Lynn Larrow has written an excellent troubleshooting guide for TIA and
Trumpet Winsock. This FAQ also address several related issues as well.
http://www.webcom.com/~llarrow/tiarefg.html
6) SLIP Emulation
-----------------
For general discussion about SLIP Emulation, check out the
alt.dcom.slip-emulators newsgroup.
7) WinSock Developer Information
--------------------------------
Here are several resources available to WinSock Developers on the
Internet.
A) Winsock Programming FAQ by John Thomas Willis
------------------------------------------------
Offers links to source code for C/C++, Visual Basic, and Pascal.
http://www.LCS.com/program.html
B) WinSock 1.1 Standard
-----------------------
ftp://SunSite.UNC.EDU/pub/micro/pc-stuff/ms-windows/winsock/FAQ
C) WinSock 2.0 Standard (in development)
----------------------------------------
ftp://sunsite.unc.edu/pub/micro/pc-stuff/ms-windows/winsock/
winsock-2.0
D) Microsoft's WinSock Developer Info
-------------------------------------
http://www.microsoft.com/products/developer/winsock/default.htm
E) Usenet
---------
alt.winsock.programming
F) Stardust Technologies WinSock Resource Page
----------------------------------------------
http://www.stardust.com/wsresource/wsresrce.html
8) Other alt.winsock.* Newsgroups
---------------------------------
alt.winsock.ivc
alt.winsock.programming
alt.winsock.trumpet
alt.winsock.voice
The traffic on alt.winsock.ivc and alt.winsock.voice is often sparse
and overlapping. Although not as active as alt.winsock, both
alt.winsock.programming and alt.winsock.trumpet are active groups.
Also, when posting, please do not post the same message to multiple
groups in the alt.winsock hierarchy.
9) Winsock Newsgroups in the comp.os.ms-windows Hierarchy
---------------------------------------------------------
comp.os.ms-windows.apps.winsock.mail
comp.os.ms-windows.apps.winsock.misc
comp.os.ms-windows.apps.winsock.news
10) UUEncoding and MIME Encoding Binary Files
---------------------------------------------
Jim Howard has written an excellent FAQ on the subject. You can
usually find the latest copy in many of the alt.binaries.pictures.*
newsgroups, or at:
ftp://rtfm.mit.edu/pub/usenet/news.answers/pictures-faq
IX. Where to Find the FAQ
=========================
The alt.winsock FAQ will be posted to alt.winsock every other Monday. It
can also be found in HTML format at:
http://www.well.com/user/nac/alt-winsock-faq.html
The FAQ will be archived monthly through news.answers as of this posting.
It can be found at:
ftp://rtfm.mit.edu/pub/usenet/news.answers/windows/winsock-faq
Or send e-mail to mail-server@rtfm.mit.edu with the following message:
send usenet/news.answers/windows/winsock-faq
------------------------------------------------------------------------
X. Administrivia
================
This FAQ was instigated by Darran Edmundson, and compiled by Kevin Osborn
(Kevin.Osborn@bc.edu) and Nancy Cedeno (nac@sirius.com), and includes
information from the #Winsock FAQ by Mike J.M. (mook@mars.superlink.net).
Thanks also to Bob Ennis, Lynn Larrow, Craig Larsen, Ed Sinkovits, Perry
Grieb, and Aaron Weintraub.
Comments and suggestions are welcome--this is a document in progress!
--
Nancy Cedeno Alegria "I'm not procrastinating -- I'm researching!"
Writer, netsurfer
nac@well.com Author of "The Internet Tool Kit"
nac@sirius.com (SYBEX, ISBN 0-7821-1688-4)