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██┐ ██┐ ████████┐ ████████┐ ███████┐ ██│ ██│ └██┌──██│ └██┌──██│ ██┌────┘ ██┐ ██┌┘ ███████│ ███████│ ███████┐ ██┐██┌┘ ██┌──██│ ██┌──██│ └────██│ ███┌┘ ████████│ ████████│ ███████│ └──┘ └───────┘ └───────┘ └──────┘ * The Virtual BBS/NET Version 6.00 Copyright (C) Roland De Graaf 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993 4246 Elisabeth Ave. Holland, MI 49424 * -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Multi-Network Documentation -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Edited By: UT Prof aka Richard Shell 1@2103 VirtualNet -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- TABLE OF CONTENTS -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- (1) - THE VBBS MULTINET ENGINE 1.1 - Overview 1.2 - The Multinetwork Master List 1.3 - The Multinet Mail Tosser 1.4 - Network-specific Interfaces (2) - CONFIGURATION 2.1 - VConfig 2.2 - Answer.net Configuration (3) - STARTING YOUR OWN NETWORK 3.1 - Considerations for Wide-Area Networks 3.2 - Local Networks (4) - TECHNICAL NOTES 4.1 - Net.0 File 4.2 - Net.x Files 4.3 - <database filename>.NET Files 4.4 - The MultiNet Tosser Functions & Email Gating APPENDICES I. Local Network Configuration II. VFido Configuration III. VWW4 Configuration IV. VUUCP Configuration -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- (1) - THE VBBS MULTINET ENGINE -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- 1.1 - Overview VBBS is the first BBS program to incorporate a true multinet engine within the BBS itself, capable of seamlessly integrating up to 999 networks and providing automatic gating of e-mail between different networks. The multinet engine works through the interraction of four components: the multinetwork master list which identifies the networks, the multinet mail tosser which processes e-mail and posts, specific network utilities used for interfacing with each basic type of network, and the front end mailer which identifies incoming network calls. 1.2 - The Multinetwork Master List The master list of allowable networks is a file named NET.0, and is located in the VBBS 'Data' subdirectory. This master list is the only way for VBBS to identify the origin and destination of posts and e-mail, so it is a requirement that major networks be listed in the NET.0 file. For small local networks, open slots configureable by the sysop have been made available in the NET.0 file for use with the VBBS, WWIV, and FIDO interface utilities. Please refer to the Local Network section below for specific details. New major networks are added to the official NET.0 file on a regular basis. Please see the NET.0 Inclusion section below. For reasons of security, the NET.0 file comes in encrypted form and may not be edited. Attempts to do so are considered hacking and appropriate legal action may be taken against those involved. It should be stressed that contamination of the master listing could result in network-wide failure and disruption of the normal flow of information through various networks. To view the network entries in the NET.0 file, simply choose option 7, Network Configuration, on the VConfig menu. 1.3 - The Multinet Mail Tosser The multinet mail tosser is built directly into VBBS. No external mail tossers from third parties are needed, although VBBS can be configured to use them if desired. The tosser handles this process of distributing email and posts to the appropriate "pending" files for each network you are connected to. The tosser also handles the importation of incoming email and posts to the BBS, and the gating of posts between networks. Mail tosser operation is completely automatic and requires no special attention. Tossing may also, however, be invoked by command line switches or batch files called by external events to add flexibility. Please refer to the individual documentation for each network-specific interface for details on syntax and how this is accomplished. Such documentation is included in the zip file for each interface utility. 1.4 - Network-specific Interfaces As of this moment, four basic network interface types may be used in conjunction with the VBBS multinet engine. These are as follows: VNET.EXE for VirtualNET-type networks (type 1) VWW4.EXE for WWIVnet-type networks (type 2) VUUCP.EXE for UUCP-type networks (type 3) VFIDO.EXE for FIDO-type networks (type 4) These utilities may be downloaded from any VBBS support board and are accompanied by specific installation instructions. Please note that these utilities are not crippled in any manner, however, you should register VBBS within sixty (60) days to avoid an interruption of service. Failure to register will inactivate all interface utilities automatically, with the exception of VNET.EXE, after the 60-day period. To avoid any inconveniences, please register VBBS as soon as possible. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- (2) - CONFIGURATION -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- 2.1 - VConfig The multinet configuration is done by running option 7, Network Configuration, in VConfig. From the net configuration menu, you simply choose which network you want to add, and enter the appropriate information. It is very important to remember after running option 7 to select option 3, Database Configuration, and run the Sort Databases and Compile Network functions found there. For specific installation details, please refer to the main VBBS560.DOC, and the DOC files that accompany each network interface utility, ie. VWW4, VUUCP, and VFIDO. 2.2 - Answer.net Configuration ANSWER.NET, an ordinary ascii text file, should be created and placed in your VBBS 'Data' subdirectory if you are to interface with other networks successfully. You must have answer.net set up properly for VBBS to be able to correctly identify incoming network calls. In many cases, the incoming network call will use a macro to identify itself. The answer.net file is used by the multinet engine to acknowledge the network macro, identify the network, and call up the proper network interface utility after connecting. Note that VirtualNET type networks do NOT need to be configured in ANSWER.NET since type 1 networks are automatic. However, to detect types 2 through 4, you must "program" ANSWER.NET to be able to identify the incoming network from the string it sends. ANSWER.NET uses only three simple one-character commands: ">", "!", and "?". ">" Sends a string. For example, >HELLO would transmit HELLO "!" Waits up to 2 seconds for a byte to come in "?" Compares received byte to ascii code values and calls up the appropriate network interface driver Here are some examples: ?78=2 If received byte was 78 ("N"), then answer network #2 (WWIVnet) N N N N is the string that WWIVNet sends. ?76=3 If recevied byte was 76 ("L"), then answer network #3 (WWIVLInk). L L L L must be the string that WWIVLink sends and must be set up by your Link server using a macro. Here is an example ANSWER.NET, for a VBBS that is on WWIVnet only which you may use: ! ?78=2 ?32=2 Here is an example you may use if you are on both WWIVnet and WWIVLink: ! ?78=2 ?32=2 ?76=3 Here is an example for a VBBS on USEnet: >UUCP ! ?85=5 Here is an example for a VBBS on USEnet, WWIVnet, and WWIVLink which may be used: >UUCP ! ?78=2 ?32=2 ?76=3 ?85=5 -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- (3) - STARTING YOUR OWN NETWORK -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- 3.1 - Considerations for Wide-Area Networks Because of VBBS' uniquely-designed multinet engine, starting your own new network is easier than ever before whether you are a business or an advanced system operator. Here are just a few things to consider if you are contemplating this: A) You will need to decide on what type of network software you want to use for your new network: VirtualNET type WWIVnet type FIDO type UUCP type While the multinet engine will easily handle any type above, remember that the simplest network to run operationally is a VirtualNET type network. This requires no special setup of the answer.net file or macro setup on the part of the server, has support for update utilities, and other advantages. B) You will need to select a name for your network. C) You will be responsible for maintaining your network, such as producing its bbslist or nodelist, establishing connections, nominating ACs, etc. D) You should have the following thought out in advance: Network Policy and Goals Network Application Advertising Administration E) Update utilities Update utilities let you, as network coordinator send out BBSLISTs and SUBSLISTs for the maintenance of your network. Custom update utilities for VirtualNET type networks are available from the VBBS author. For more information on how to start a VirtualNET type network, please refer to the LOCALNET.DOC file. F) Inclusion in NET.0 Inclusion in the NET.0 file implies that your network will be national/international in nature with 1) a substantial number of subscribing nodes 2) in diverse geographical areas 3) with a reasonable volume of message traffic. Networks which feel they will meet these criteria should send requests for inclusion on the NET.0 master list directly to 1@1 VirtualNET. The requesting sysop will receive a questionnaire to complete and return. The information provided will be reviewed and approved by the Virtual MultiNetwork Committee (VMC) in light of the guidelines above. There is no charge for inclusion in the NET.0 file. The only constraints are: 1) the request for inclusion be made by a registered VBBS system operator, and 2) only one inclusion per system operator is allowed. 3.2 - Local Networks In many cases the network you wish to start or join will be restricted to your own locale, or be too small for inclusion on the national NET.0 master list. In this case the sysop wishing to start/join a network may use one of the sysop configureable open slots available on the NET.0 list. A total of 2 configureable slots are available on the NET.0 master list. They are slots 15 and 19, and you can configure the network names and network type. To set-up the name and type for slot 15: Create a text file called LOCALNET.15 in your main VBBS dir. The first line of the file should contain the network name. The second line the network type (1 to 4). Example: MyNetwork 4 Setting up slot 19 works the same way except you would create a LOCALNET.19 instead. Please refer to the LOCALNET.DOC for detailed instructions on setting up your network. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- (4) - TECHNICAL NOTES -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- 4.1 - NET.0 File The NET.0 file is a master list of networks. Each network is defined by Proper Name ("VirtualNET", "WWIVNet", "USENet",etc.) and by Network Protocol (VNET, VWW4. VUUCP, VFIDO,etc.), and by Network ID. Each network has a unique ID number. IDs begin at 1 and go up sequentially. Slot 0 is earmarked for special use by the author. This file is encrypted and may only be edited by the VBBS author. 4.2 - NET.x Files These are the configuration files for each network and are located in the Data subdirectory. The .x refers to the network ID number as defined in the NET.0 file. These are simple ascii files in this format: <parametername>=<parameter data> A NET.2 file for WWIVNet, for example, might look like this: systemid=2067 netdir=c:\wwiv\data mode=net where systemid is the WWIV node number, netdir is where the network files are located, and mode is either "net" or "link" which instructs VWW4 of the mode to run in. A NET.1 file for VirtualNET, might look like this: systemid=2103 netdir=c:\vbbs\net server=1 client=2112 $1-512-340-2265 client=2115 +381-0031 /25 where $,+, /,!, and ^ are optional modifiers indicating long distance phone numbers, local phone numbers, threshold, macro, and password. Note that VConfig is used to edit these NET.x files, but they could be edited manually. 4.3 - <database filename>.NET Files These are located in the DB subdirectory and show the networks a database (message base,sub) is connected to. These are ascii files that store the sub identifications. In addition to the .NET file, .QSC, .BIN, and .DAT files are generated when a database is configured. For example, the x.NET file for VBBS Forum, a sub gated to WWIVNet, might look like this: 1=302 2=5275 This is translated as: network ID 1 (VirtualNET) sub number 302 network ID 2 (WWIVNet) subtype 5275 If this sub were being gated to other networks, additional lines would be added with the appropriate information. Note here also that the sub identification can be a number or a string. This depends only on the net interface's interpretation of the data. 4.4 - The MultiNet Tosser Functions & Email Gating The multinet tosser ensures that all gated messages go to the proper place. An example of the mechanics are as follows: When a user posts, two copies are written. One goes to the database itself, and the other goes to SPOOL.NET which is a temporary file fond in the Data subdirectory. After the user logs off, the tosser analyzes SPOOL.NET and distributes the posts to PENDING.x files, where .x is the network ID. VBBS then checks for PENDING.x files that might exist and calls up the proper network interface handler for each PENDING.x file. The net interface program reads its own PENDING.x file and packs up the messages. When a net interface program receives a message, it also needs to write two copies, one to LOCAL.NET which VBBS unpacks to the databases, and one to either VALIDATE.x if validation is turned on for the sub, or to DISTRIB.NET. DISTRIB.NET is similar to SPOOL.NET except that messages in DISTRIB.NET are redistributed to all networks except the one it came in on. (SPOOL.NET is distributed to all networks). The multinet mail tosser also handles gating of email. That is, you can send & receive email to a user on a network of which you are not actually a member. For example, let's say you wanted to send an email to someone on FIDOnet, but you're not actually on FIDOnet, but you are a member of VirtualNET. Your first step is to find a VirtualNET system that is also on FIDOnet. (Multinetworked) Once that is accomplished, email the sysop of that board and ask if you may use his system to gate email into the other network. (It's always good to ask first.) If permission is granted, manually create a text file in your DATA directory, the filename should be GATEWAY.x where x is equal to the network id of the network you want to have a gateway to. In this example, since are target network is FIDOnet (Network ID = 4), we would create a GATEWAY.4 file in the DATA Directory. We will put one line of ASCII text into this file: @<system address>*<network number> <system address> is the node address of our gateway system. <network number> is the TRANSPORT NETWORK which will be used to gate the mail. For example, if I wanted my FIDOnet gateway to be @440 VirtualNET, I would make GATEWAY.4, with the line: @440*1 Another example: I want to email USEnet thru TechNET (Network ID = 8) system @1000. I would create a GATEWAY.5 file (Network ID = 5 for USEnet), containing the line: @1000*8 It should be noted that the TRANSPORT NETWORK must be of VirtualNET type. An email may, however, pass thru several gateways (no limit), if needed, to get it where you want it to go. This opens up some very powerful possibilities. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=- APPENDIX I - LOCAL NETWORK CONFIGURATION -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 5.1 - Local Network Configuration First, be aware that two utilities are available, MAKE15.ZIP and MAKELN.ZIP, which automate much of the process below if you are starting your own local network. To set up your own local network, create a separate directory for the network; for example c:\vbbs\local. All files for the local network (networkid 15 or network 19) belong in this directory. Bbslist.0 contains the network coordinators node information, while bbslist.1 contains the information for other nodes connecting to your system. Subslist.net contains the list of subs and sub numbers for your network -- four digit subs are autorequestable, and five digit numbers are secured. Exact format including spacing of these files is critical to proper localNET functioning, therefore it recommended that you cut and paste using bbslist.0 and bbslist.1 from VirutalNET as a template. After creating your files, you must add the local net in Vconfig: ┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Set up your LocalNET Settings In Vconfig as follows: │ └──────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ 1. Node Number=1 --Your node number for localNET 2. Net Dir=C:\VBBS\LOCAL --Path path to localNET directory 3. Server=1 --The net server for your localNET 4. Server Phone #:7773333 --Phone # of your localnet server 5. Server Call: Local --Enter [5] to change toggle from long distance to local 6. Server Threshold: 1 k ---Means your board will call the server when a minimum of 1k of messages are ready to be sent 7. Server Macro: <none> 8. Server Password: <none> 9. Server Protocol: DSZ Zmodem --Must be uniform throughout your network A. Server Compression: PKZIP 1.10 C. Add New Client E. Edit Clients U. Uninstall this Network ┌───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Add additional nodes (Clients) to your network as follows:│ └───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ -=<E. Edit Clients>=- 1. Client Node Number: 2180 ---Clients Node Number that you assigned 2. Client Phone #: 773-8330 ---Clients phone # 3. Client Call: Local ---It is a Local call 4. Client Threshold: 0 k ---Never call out, implying the client will call you 5. Client Macro: <none> 6. Client Password: <none> 7. Client Protocol: DSZ Zmodem 8. Client Compression: PKZIP 1.10 ┌───────────────────┐ │ Name Your Network │ └───────────────────┘ Creating a file called DEFINE.NET in your main VBBS data directory will give your network the name you choose. Type copy con define.net, then add the name of your choice on the first line. Hit ctrl Z to save and exit. ┌─────────────────────────┐ │ Compiling your network: │ └─────────────────────────┘ From your vbbs directory: type the following and press your enter key: VNET /A NETWORKID=15 (or 19) You will see the network compile and list the nodes if your setup is correct. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- APPENDIX II - VFIDO CONFIGURATION -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Introduction ============ This program is designed to create an interface between the VBBS software written by Roland de Graaf and any Fido- compatible network. FidoNET itself is the largest hobbyist network in the world, with over 21,000 BBS members, and literally thousands of smaller Fido-compatible networks worldwide. This version of the interface program allows the exchange of private mail and public message areas between VBBS and Fido. VFIDO is fully-featured and has provisions for incoming and outgoing Crash Mail, File Requesting, and File Attaches as well. Used in conjunction with the integral VBBS front end mailer or with FrontDoor, VFIDO readily handles calls to and from other Fido BBSes running VBBS, FrontDoor, BinkleyTerm, or other mailers adhering to FidoNet FTS-0001 specifications. Joining FidoNET =============== Until the arrival of VBBS, setting up FidoNET for the first time was a laborious and complicated chore for sysops unfamiliar with Fido's idiosyncrasies. In essence, FidoNET policy requires the sysop to have his interface software set up properly before he can officially apply for a FidoNET node number. Application for a node number must be made through e-mail sent from the requesting sysop's bbs through FidoNet to the local Area Coordinator. A temporary node number is issued by the AC for the sysop to be able to make this connect. This procedure may vary from area to area, however, so please contact the nearest AC for information. Before proceeding with VFido installation, then, you must first obtain a provisional node number from your local FidoNET Area Coordinator and information about what application information you need to provide him with. Using the provisional node number the AC issues you, you may begin installing the VFido interface. After this initial setup is completed using this temporary node number, you must send the application information directly to the AC in Fido email. The direct connect from your BBS via Fido is the AC's guarantee that your bbs software has been set up correctly and is Fido-capable. Based on the application information you email, the AC will then issue you an official FidoNET node number and begin proceedings to have your number listed on the main FidoNET Nodelist. At this point, you will have to update the FidoNET network information (option 7 in VConfig) in VBBS to replace the provisional node number used for the initial connect with your official and permanent node number. The information entered in VConfig must be recompiled (see below). Normally, you may expect to wait 5-10 days for your new Fido node number to appear on the official Fido Nodelist, at which point you may begin subscribing to echoes,etc. Initial Configuration Of VFIDO To Give E-Mail Functionality =========================================================== Place the VFIDO.EXE program in your VBBS directory. Run VCONFIG.EXE, and select Network Configuration for the Fido (type 4) network you are configuring. 1. Fido Address: 2:440/211 Your Fido network primary address in Zone:Net/Node.Point format) 2. NetMail Directory: C:\VBBS\NETMAIL Where Fido netmail will be stored - must be the same for all your Fido networks 3. OutBound Directory: C:\VBBS\OUTBOUND Where Fido EchoMail will be stored - must be the same for all your Fido networks 4. Archiver: PAK Compression method for outgoing EchoMail - PAK, LHA, ZIP, ARJ 5. UnArchiver: PAK Compression method for incoming EchoMail - PAK, LHA, ZIP, ARJ 6. FIDO Front-End: Standalone Standalone or FrontDoor are only valid options at this stage 7. Nodelist Name: NODELIST The name of the nodelist for the network 8. Zones: 1-7 The range of Zones that belong to that network (ie the Domain) D. Dial List 1. System Address: 2:440/59 Fido address of node to call 2. Phone Number: 0689-824890 Full phone number to dial 3. Poll Priority: Hold Hold means never call, Priority is call as soon as mail is waiting, once a day is the final option 4. Preferred Session Type: EMSI (FSC-0056) w/Zmodem (DSZ) EMSI or TSYNCH handshaking selection 5. Session Password: FRED The password to use in the EMSI session with the other BBS, which may be blank R. Routing 1: 2:440/59 2:440/59 Fido address of server and routing mask including wildcards. The routing logic works top to bottom through this list so you can't add anything meaningful after the last line with the *:*/* on it. 2: 1:1/1 1:*/* 3: 2:440/6 *:*/* A)dd Lines E)dit Lines D)elete Empty Lines Q)uit: A. AKAs 1: 2:440/59.3 Alternative address for the board - must be same Zone 2: 2:440/0 A)dd Lines E)dit Lines D)elete Empty Lines Q)uit: Once this configuration is completed, go to the main VBBS directory and run: VFIDO /C NETWORKID=# You must rerun this every time you change any of the above configuration information. VFido Control File ================== You will also need to set up a file containing phone prefix aliases called VFIDO.FON in your DATA subdirectory. This is used to ensure that the phone numbers listed in the nodelist are converted to a format that can be dialed from your BBS. This is used for removing your country code for national calls and area code for local calls. VFIDO needs the correct phone numbers listed so it can call any BBS in the nodelist when Crash Mail, File Attaches or File Requests are sent. An example of this control file for the USA would be: 011- The prefix for dialing international phone numbers 1-616-399- 399- Sets up the toll free codes for your area code, where 616 is the area code and 399 a local prefix 1-616- 1- Makes all other calls in your area code long distance 1- 1- Ensures all US phone numbers are not made international This example would convert a phone number listed as 1-616-399-4818 to 399-4818, or convert 1-616-772-0482 to 1-772-0482, or 44-689-890937 to 011-44-689-90937 and for Europe: 010- The prefix for international calls 44-689- Strip the country and area code for local calls 44- 0- Add a 0 prefix for national calls As an example, the above would convert an international phone number listed in the nodelist as 1-616-399-4818 to 010-1-616-399-4818, or a national number in the nodelist as 44-689-890937 to 0-689-890937. Nodelist Compilation ==================== Obtain the most recent nodelist from your FidoNet server and place it unarchived into the C:\VBBS\NETMAIL directory. Then at the prompt in the main VBBS directory type: VFIDO /A NETWORKID=# You will need to rerun this every time you receive a new NODELIST, or when you change information in the VFIDO.FON control file. Since the FidoNET nodelist is quite large, normally your Netmail Server will only send out weekly updates called NODEDIFF files automatically. Third party utilities such as XLAXDIFF and MERGENL may be used to make a new updated nodelist using the NODEDIFF information. After doing this, the above analysis must be run. Batch files have been developed which automate this updating process and can be called up in daily maintenance. Here is an example of one such batch file which checks to see if there is a NODEDIFF file and uses the XLAXDIFF utility to produce a new NODELIST. @ECHO OFF IF EXIST C:\VBBS\OUTBOUND\NODEDIFF.* GOTO :GOTONE GOTO :EXIT :GOTONE CD C:\VBBS\NETMAIL DEL NODEDIFF.* CD C:\VBBS\OUTBOUND COPY C:\VBBS\OUTBOUND\NODEDIFF.* C:\VBBS\NETMAIL\NODEDIFF.* DEL NODEDIFF.* CD \VBBS\NETMAIL XLAXDIFF /C CD \VBBS VFIDO /A NETWORKID=4 :EXIT ECHO NO NEW NODEDIFF FILE TO UPDATE! EXIT Sending E-Mail Using VFIDO ========================== To send an E-Mail message from VBBS to any Fido-type network , invoke the E-Mail routine as normal. The User Network Address field should be completed in the format User Name@Fido Address, so to send E-Mail to me use Neil J Marshall@2:440/211. If you want to send Crash Mail, that is where the E-Mail is sent directly to the addressee's BBS, ignoring the routing logic, then add a " +c" after the addressee's name, so to send Crash Mail to me use Neil J Marshall +c@2:440/211. In Fido-type networks it is policy that messages with files attached must go directly to the addressee's BBS and ignore the routing logic, so if you attach a file to a message it will be held on your board awaiting a call from the addressee's BBS unless you send it Crash Mail or the addressee is one of the BBSs in your dialing list that you call. File Requests Using VFIDO ========================= If you want to send a File Request to another Fido-type BBS invoke the e-mail routine as normal. The User Network Address field should be completed in the format Sysop +f@Fido Address, where the " +f" is the switch to indicate this is a File Request. The Filename requested is put in the Title field of the message. All File Requests are sent direct to the addressee's BBS and ignore routing. If the addressee's BBS is not one that you have set up in your dialing list, then you must also use the +c switch to make the File Request a Crash E-Mail. To request the latest version of VFIDO from me, you would invoke the E-Mail function and address it to Sysop +f +c@2:440/211, then make the Title of the message VFIDO. VFIDO also supports incoming File Requests. When a File Request is received, VFIDO searches each of the File Areas that you have set up in VCONFIG and sends the file back if it is found. VFIDO also supports "Magic Names" for File Requests - this is where a pseudonym is associated with an actual file for ease of access by calling systems. Magic Names should be set up in the file VFIDO.MAG in your DATA directory. The format of this file is one entry per line, giving the "Magic Name" followed by the full path and filename of the file to associate with the Magic Name, for example VBBS C:\VBBS\FILES\SYSOP\VBBS560.ZIP FILES C:\VBBS\MASTLIST.TXT VFIDO C:\VBBS\FILES\SYSOP\VFIDO560.ZIP might be some of the most common ones. If you want a "standard letter" sent in response to each file request, create this letter in a file called FILEREQ.TXT in your TEXT path. Generally a Fido Sysop should use this to list the Magic Names applicable to their BBS. Configuration Of VFIDO To Add Conference Functionality ====================================================== If you want to access public message areas in Fido, you will need to know the AREA name that uniquely identifies each Fido conference. Supposing for example you wished to set up VBBS to participate in a Fido conference whose AREA name was HARPOON: Run VCONFIG.EXE and select Database Configuration, Message Bases, the relevant Group and Database. Then select Networks Configuration, A for add, select the network, and on the line for the Network Conference Identifier, put the AREA name of the Echomail conference in the network, and ALSO, separated by a space, the Fido addresses of the nodes to whom you directly circulate the conference, if you are acting as a local hub. If you are simply receiving a conference, then place the node number of the EchoMail server you connect with to obtain the conference after the AREA name. This line is currently limited to 80 characters here so it will be difficult for you to become a major hub yet. Our plans do call for amplifying this field shortly, however. An example of the FidoNET entry in the database would look like this: Network Conference Identifier: HARPOON 2:440/59 1:2/3 ^ ^ * * * * * These are the Fido * addresses of the BBSes * in the circulation list * (or Echomail server of * the conference) * This is the AREA name of the Fido conference After you have set up all your conferences, you must run VCONFIG, Database Configuration, Compile Network Configuration - and you will have to rerun this every time you change the network configuration of a database. With these simple steps taken, every message posted on that conference will be echoed to Fido, and every message from Fido on that conference will be fed into VBBS. Using AreaFix To Request Conferences ==================================== You can add or remove your BBS to the subscription list for conferences on other Fido BBS using AreaFix. All you have to do is to send a NetMail to AreaFix at the BBS address with your AreaFix password as the title (the AreaFix password is agreed in advance by yourself and the other Sysop) and a content that lists, line by line, the Area name of a conference, preceded by a - for remove. For example, a message whose content read: VFIDO_SUPPORT -GAMES_DISCUSSION ------- would add your BBS to the VFIDO_SUPPORT conference and remove it from the GAMES_DISCUSSION conference. The ---- tear line is used to indicate to AreaFix the end of your requests. VFIDO supports incoming AreaFix requests as well. However, there is no facility for implementing an AreaFix password, so the title of the NetMail can be anything. Summary Of VFIDO Command Syntax =============================== VFIDO {channel number} {option} NETWORKID=# # is the network identifier as specified in the NET.0 file for the network you are connecting to. {channel number} is only necessary with /DIAL, /HOST and /POLL options. {option} is one of: /A Build network list from nodelist /C Compile initial Fido information /DIAL Make a call to another Fido address, specifying the address right after the switch like /DIAL2:440/211 /HOST Answer an incoming Fido call /POLL Call all systems for whom Crash Mail is pending /U Scan VBBS mail and toss to Fido /T Scan Fido mail and toss to VBBS For example, a batch file to call up from the WFC to force Crash Mail callouts might contain something like this: VFIDO 1 /POLL NETWORKID=4 Technical Information ===================== VFIDO creates FTS-0001 packets for NetMail with FSC-0039 extensions for Zone and Point 4D addressing, FTS-0004 ARCmail packetsfor EchoMail, and FTS-0006 WaZOO-format File Requests. Connections can be using FTS-0001 (TSynch) using XMODEM or FSC-0056 (EMSI) using ZModem. Outgoing Crash Mail is only supported using EMSI. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- APPENDIX III - VWW4 CONFIGURATION /WWIVNET AND LINK SETUP -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Requirements ------------ It should be pointed out here that in order to interface VBBS with WWIVNet and WWIVLink (or other WWIVtype networks), you should register VBBS as soon as possible. Multinet access in the shareware version is limited to 60 days, after which time all network interface utilities with the exception of VNet, become inoperable. By registering, you are guaranteed that network access will not be interrupted, so please do register VBBS as soon as possible to avoid any inconvenience. There is a only a one-time, life-time registration fee for the DOS version of VBBS. VWW4.EXE is the interface utility designed especially for VBBS version 6.00 which carries out the net interface function for all WWIV-type networks, including WWIVNet, WWIVLink, and ICENet. Before setting up the interface, however, you should be aware that many subs from these networks are now being gated to VirtualNET. Thus, it may not even be necessary for you to carry out this interface at all. Please read the NETGUIDE.DOC for information on how to set up and join VirtualNET and subscribe to subs. A current SUBSLIST.NET file in your NET subdirectory lists the various subs available to choose from. Now, if you already have VWW4.EXE in hand and want to continue with the interface installation, be aware that you MUST also have a WWIVnet or WWIV-type node number in order to net. You must also set up the appropriate WWIV network files according to instructions from your AC/GC. WWIVNet network policy has changed recently and sysops are required to register the WWIV network software within 60 days. After this period of time, unregistered sysops are automatically dropped from the WWIV bbslist. The WWIV network files may be registered separately for $20, and we urge all sysops that wish to have access to all WWIV-type subs to register this software. Contact your local WWIV AC for more information. As for WWIVLink sysops, no such registration requirement currently exists and separate network software is available. In general, it is best to set up WWIV completely and separately until your net connects are operational. It is easier then to delete the unnecessary WWIV files later. If you plan on receiving more than one WWIV-type network, then you should set up individual WWIV directories with different directory names, and realize your net connections first before making any file deletions. This procedure is covered thoroughly in the WWIV install documentation and in the network documentation written by WWIV support staff. It is important that your net connections be properly established and each WWIV bbs be fully functional in this respect before proceeding. It is also recommended that all net connections through VWW4 be made using Channel 1 selected in VCONFIG (option 2), although any active channel may be used. Initial Configuration --------------------- Once you have established normal net connections through WWIV, then proceed as follows: Step 1 - Run VCONFIG once again and choose the NETWORK configuration option (option 7). Here you will see a list of current networks handled by the multinet engine. Choose WWIVNet (or WWIVLink, etc) with the up/down arrow keys and fill in the appropriate fields shown below. Please note that each network listed has a separate slot in the NET.0 control file and that all WWIV-type networks are Type 2, meaning they use VWW4 as the interface utility. You will now see the following type of screen: ┌───────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Network #2 WWIVnet Type 2 (VWW4.EXE) │ └───────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ 1. Node Number: 2. Data Directory: 3. Mode: 4. EXE Directory: 5. Dialout Init String: U. Uninstall this Network Step 2 - Enter your WWIVnet node number in the first field. Step 3 - In the next field, enter the full path to the WWIVNet DATA directory (e.g. c:\wwiv\data). Step 4 - For Mode, select NET for WWIVNet-type networks, or LINK for WWIVLink-type networks. Step 5 - For the entry to the EXE (executeable) directory, specify the complete path to where the WWIV network executeable files are located (e.g. c:\wwiv). Step 6 - For your Dialout Init String, leave this blank for now, unless you are using a version of WWIV prior to WWIV 4.20. Later on when testing your WWIV connect with the multinet engine, it may be necessary for you to include the WWIV modem init string in this space if you fail to connect properly. This string would be the same one chosen from the WWIV modems.mdm file. Again, make sure you connect properly to your WWIV server independently from VBBS before attempting the interface here. Step 7 - After Vconfiguring the NETWORK option above, unzip the VWW4.exe file in your root VBBS directory and read the technical information given in the VWW4.DOC . It should be noted that the multinet engine in VBBS 6.00 is automatic and requires no batch files, but batch files may be used for convenience and flexibility depending upon your setup. Step 8 - You must now create an ANSWER.NET file based on the information provided in the MULTINET.DOC file. This should be placed in your VBBS DATA subdirectory. For a VBBS that is on WWIVNet, the ANSWER.NET file would look as follows: ! ?78=2 ?32=2 For a VBBS on WWIVNet and WWIVLink, the ANSWER.NET would contain: ! ?78=2 ?32=2 ?76=3 Please refer to other parts of the MULTINET.DOC for more details. Just as an explanation, the ?78 above refers to the N N N sign that WWIVNet sends as an incoming identifier. The ?76 is an L L L that WWIVLink uses. These are ascii characters 78 and 76, respectively. Step 9 - Copy NET.0 from the zip package to the VBBS NET subdirectory. Step 10 - If you are interfacing with both WWIVnet and WWIVLink, you MUST maintain separate directories for NET and LINK as mentioned previously. The same holds true for any other WWIV-type networks you subscribe to. In each directory make sure that all of the WWIV network files are in their proper places. Make sure you have run Vconfig's Network option and set the path correctly to where the respective networkx.exe files are located. NOTE : You will also have to maintain the DATA subdirectories in each of these to create the necessary NNxxxx.net and Nxxxx.net or NNALL.NET files needed later to subscribe and to host subs on WWIVNet. If you are converting totally over to VBBS from WWIV and would like to delete unnecessary/unwanted WWIV files, a list of the required WWIV files may be found in the APPENDIX. Erasure of unwanted files, however, should be the very last step you take in the conversion process after verifying successful net connections. As an alternative to deletion, we suggest that you simply zip up the unnecessary files and keep them in a safe place in the event you need them to reconfigure something in WWIV itself later. Step 11- Run VConfig again and choose the Databases (option 3). Choose Sort Databases to allow the program to set up. Now choose the Compile Networks option. It is important to note than whenever ANY changes are made in the Network option or in Database entries, this must be followed by the Sorting and Compiling options above for the changes to take effect. This complete the network installation procedure. Installing Message Bases ------------------------ Assuming you have placed VWW4.exe in your main VBBS directory and vconfigured the networks properly, then installing a message base is a fairly simple process. Follow the instructions given in the main documentation regarding adding databases. In the database entry for a sub, note that option G is for Networks Configuration. Choosing this will bring up a screen which allows you to A)dd D)elete E)dit a network. Pressing A) to add a network brings up a screen where you can choose the appropriate network. For a sub carried on WWIVNet, you would choose entry 2, for example. Doing so will bring up another prompt as follows: WWIVNet Network Conference Identifier:_ Simply enter the subtype number of the message base you want, and press enter. Exit out of the database to the main database menu and once again, choose Sort Databases and Compile Networks. Please note that if a message base is being gated to VirtualNET from any other network, you have the option of subscribing to it as a VirtualNET sub or as a sub from another network, but NOT both. Doing so will result in duplicate posts. NOTE: If you are subscribing to a Net or Link sub for the first time, you must follow the normal procedure of requesting the sub from the host and setting up the appropriate NNxxx.NET files or NNALL.NET file in the proper data directory. In addition this version of VBBS also supports WWIV's auto request sub feature (req.exe) using the VREQ utility available. It also accepts type 20 messages (subs.pub) using the VWWIV utility. Hosting a WWIV Sub ------------------ If you are currently hosting a WWIV message base, be assured that the same procedure above works for hosts. Again, simply enter the appropriate subtype when asked for the Network Conference Identifier. Don't forget that you must maintain your distribution list through you Nxxxx.NET file as usual. Subs flagged for validation may be validated from the SysOp SubMenu. Gating Subs to Other Networks ----------------------------- If you are currently hosting a sub on WWIVNet or another network, you probably will be interested in 'gating' your sub into VirtualNET or other networks to expand your subscriber base. This is easily accomplished by adding additional networks to your database entry. Entering more than one network and respective Network Conference Identifier (subtype, sub number, echo,area,etc.) effectively 'gates' that database. NOTE: If you are running VBBS as a chain, we do not recommend that you attempt gating due to the mechanics of the multinet engine. If you wish to gate to multiple networks, we strongly recommend that you run VBBS as your main bbs software for simplicity's sake. Please refer to the NETGUIDE.DOC for further details on how to set up a hosted VirtualNET sub, sub numbers,etc. Forcing a Callout ----------------- Please note that the VWW4 software is fully automatic, and will callout and receive calls from your server depending upon your main settings for Threshold and Polling in Vconfig. However, you most likely will wish to force callouts to your server from the WFC screen from time to time. To do so, you should Type 'N' from the Control Panel. First, this will bring up all the Networks you currently belong to. Select the appropriate network followed by the appropriate system (server). This will force the system to call a particular node. NOTE: WWIVNet and WWIV-type callouts are completely automated if you are running VBBS as your main program. Be sure to set your Threshold level and Polling frequency in Vconfig. Note that the settings of these levels apply generically to all networks, (e.g. the same threshold and polling configurations apply to VirtualNET, WWIVNet, and WWIVLink packets). Setting the threshold level to 0 effectively tells the software never to dial out automatically, so be sure to change this. For different calling schedules, appropriate utilities such as POLLUTIL.ZIP and VWW4-CHK.ZIP are available to customize your setup. VWW4 Activity Log ----------------- All net connections made by VWW4 are also listed in the VWW4.LOG file which can be found in your main WWIV directory. We suggest setting up a function key to be able to view this from the VBBS WFC screen using the Control Panel option in Vconfig. For example, a bat file called VWW4LOG.BAT could be created and placed in your VBBS directory with the following command line: CD\WWIV VLIST VWW4.LOG CD\VBBS If you are interfacing with both WWIVNet and WWIVLink, then a second batch file similar to the above would need to be created pointing to your Link directory, and a second function key set up in the Control Panel. Viewing WWIV's net logs may be done in the same fashion using the Control Panel. Simple script mods are also available to view all pending lists from the internal Sysop Menu in VBBS. Analyzing the BBSList --------------------- VBBS creates a listing of systems belonging to various networks that is used for routing mail. You will need to compile this information for WWIV the first time you set up so that it may be viewed from inside of the board. Subsequent updates are made automatically. Note that when WWIV calls in with new bbslists, these will be compiled normally and no special maintenance is necessary. To make a new indexed list of WWIV boards for use by VBBS, please delete the existing BBSDATA.IDX file from your WWIV data subdirectory first. Then, from the WWIV main directory type: NETWORK3 /Y . This will produce new a new idx file. Now, generate a new bbslist index for VBBS. Change to the root VBBS directory where VWW4 is located and type: VWW4 B NETWORKID=2 for the WWIVNet list, or VWW4 B NETWORKID=3 for the WWIVLink index You should now have succesfully created the new bbslist index file that VBBS uses. This is located in your VBBS Data subdirectory. The procedure is similar for generating bbs listings for other WWIV-type networks. Be aware of the importance of specifying the correct Network Identifer Number in the above command line NETWORKID= . Refer to the list of networks available in VConfig's Network options if you need to refresh your memory on what network the appropriate network number is. VWW4 Command Line Switches -------------------------- The Virtual MultiNet Engine (VME) handles WWIVtype networks seamlessly. However, VWW4 functions may be called up from batch files also, thus providing a flexible means for you to customize your setup. VME will run the VWW4 as needed automatically, providing the proper NETWORKID= and PORT= parameters. Running from a command line, however, you must specify the following three command line parameters: VWW4 <command letter> NETWORKID=<net #> PORT=<COM port #> The command letter tells VWW4 what to do: Command Letters are: B Bundle mail for WWIV (Update WWIV packets and bbslists) U Unbundle mail from WWIV and store in VBBS databases D#### Dial WWIV System #, do transfer, and unbundle if successful A Answer WWIVnet call, do transfer, and unbundle if successful. The NETWORKID= parameter tells VWW4 which network to process. WWIVnet is net #2, WWIVLink is net #3, ICEnet is net #6, and if new WWIVnet based nets appear, they will have net numbers assigned to them as well. Check NET.0 for the current network list. The PORT= parameter must be included when using VWW4 to answer, or dial a network call. This specifies a COM port number. An example of forcing bundling from the command line would look like this: VWW4 B NETWORKID=2 PORT=2 This would bundle the mail for WWIVNet for processing on comport 2. Please refer to the extended VWW4 documentation included with the VWW4.EXE file itself for more detailed information about converting from WWIV to VBBS. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- APPENDIX IV - VUUCP CONFIGURATION AND INSTALLATION -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-