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What the internet support desk can help you with
 
QuestionAnswer
Exactly what can the Internet Support desk help me with?
     The Internet Support Desk was established to assist customers in the basic configuration of thier computers, in order to allow them to get connected to the internet, and to allow them to sucessfully send and receive email.
    As much as we'd like to, we cannot possibly be familiar with all the computers and software that are on the market, and therefore cannot offer support for those products.  As a general rule, if it's not internet configuration related, the Internet Support Desk will not be able to help you with it.  You will need to seek the services of a local computer repair shop.  There are several computer repair shops located in Fallon and can be located at www.yahoo.com/local
    The most common non-internet related calls have to do with viruses and misconfigured "software" firewalls.  Viruses and software firewalls can and do change your internet protocol and your email settings.  In such cases, your first support contact should be with the software vendors - the people who created the software - since they are in the best position to help you. In the case of a virus, your antivirus software vendor should be the folks who are contacted.  If you use DSL internet, we recommend that you use a "hardware" firewall instead of a software firewall.   Hardware firewalls, such as Linksys, Netgear, or DLink, tend to be less troublesome then software firewalls, and don't add the extra CPU load to a computer that a software firewall does.
    While we are happy to assist you as much as possible, please remember that we are limited in the scope of the support we can offer.
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Email Questions
 
QuestionAnswer
Why am I getting SPAM?
 Click here to find out!
How do I set up my email account?
 Click here to find out!
How do I set up my email account in Windows Vista?
 Click here to find out!
How do I change an email account in Outlook Express?
 Click here to find out!
How do I set up a news account in Outlook Express?
 Click here to find out!
How do I change a news account in Outlook Express?
 Click here to find out!
How do I import email messages into Outlook Express?
Click here to find out!
How do I import email addresses into Outlook Express?
 Click here to find out!
How do I use multiple email identities in Outlook Express?
 Click here to find out!
My domain isn't CCCOMM.NET. What email server do I use?
  Domain Name     Incoming Email POP Server     Outgoing Email SMTP Server     News Server  
cccomm.net pop3.phonewave.net smtp.phonewave.net news.phonewave.net
phonewave.net pop3.phonewave.net smtp.phonewave.net news.phonewave.net
aiinc.com pop3.phonewave.net smtp.phonewave.net news.phonewave.net
Mobile configuration

If your PC is a laptop that needs to shuttle between one network at work and a DSL modem at home, or if you simply need to be able to swap between configurations for different ISPs (from DSL to dial-up and back), there are some things to make your life a little easier.

Windows users can install NetSwitcher (shareware for $14), which automates switching of settings for TCP/IP, Internet Explorer, Netscape, Outlook Express, and so on.

Apple Mac users simply use Location Manager, built into the Mac OS. For each location, define a named Configuration in the TCP/IP control panel. Then use the control panel Location Manager to create a named Location for each desired set-up, and link each Location to the appropriate TCP/IP Configuration. Change of Mail and News setttings in the Internet control panel?can similarly be linked to the same Location (in Mac OS 9.x and below). You can then use the Location Manager control strip item to switch between set-ups with one click, with no restart necessary. You might find it helpful to configure an Offline location, in which TCP/IP is switched to Inactive state. You then switch to Offline before leaving one network, so that you can connect to the second network without exposing the configuration of the first to the second. Be aware that switching TCP/IP configurations disables any TCP/IP tweaks you might have in stalled, and resets to defaults.
Why do I get 0x800CCC0D or 0x800CCC0E errors, and how can I fix them?
 This error can show up when you try to send or receive email. Possible causes are:

    1. - Antivirus or personal firewall software has forceably terminated (stopped) the request from leaving the mail client. See http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=813514

    2. - Antivirus software is configured to transparently scan email, and has caused the networking layer for this remain in an unstable state.

    3. - A 3rd party network is blocking access to SMTP, except to their mail servers. (common policy to curtail spam abuse)

The most effective way we've discovered to troubleshooting these issues is to use telnet to see if you can reach our mail system. To do this, follow these steps:

    Click Start
    Click Run
    Remove (if present) any text in the Run dialog box.
    Type telnet ccc-mail-cust.phonewave.net 25
    Click OK

If your personal firewall prompts you about granting access to telnet, please grant access. Failure to grant access, or choosing block/deny can cause telnet to have the same problems your mail program has. (this will impeede troubleshooting)

Idealy, you should be greeted by our mail system with a banner stating: 220 ccc-mail-cust.phonewave.net ESMTP SendMail (etc)..........

If you get a notice about a connection failure, or the window closes without you requesting it to, this is a sign that cause #3 is to blame. This window should stay open until you close it (or in a few minutes if you don't do anything with it) Otherwise, check the Knowledgebase article published by Microsoft.

If #3 is to blame, and you are on a 3rd party network (some other ISP besides C.C. Communications), you will need to contact that provider, and set the SMTP server in the mail client to transfer email through their system. This can also be our blocking if you're attempting to relay mail outside our network while not using our mail server.

At this point, go ahead and close the TELNET window if you have not already.

If you are unable to connect to our mail system via telnet, check your firewall access control list. This varies by program. Check the program documentation or the software vendor for more details. It's possible your settings block everything and only permit a few things, or your mail program has explicitly been blocked.
General Troubleshooting Tips!
 Click here to troubleshoot!

 
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DSL Questions
 
QuestionAnswer
Basic network configuration for internet use.
 Click here to find out!
Ethernet cable: straight-through or cross-over?

    There are two sorts of ethernet twisted-pair cable with 8-pin RJ45 connectors at both ends:

  • straight-through: where each pin is connected to the same pin at the other end;
  • cross-over: where pins (1,2) are connected to (3,6) at the other end, and vice-versa.

    For Comtrend CT-5xx model DSL modems connecting to a normal ethernet NIC in a PC, you need a straight-through cable, because the DSL modem modem RJ45 sockets are normally wired as if they were hub sockets.

    All other DSL modems we install require a cross-over ethernet cable ?hen connecting to a normal ethernet NIC in a PC.

    You can tell whether you have the correct cable because, when both DSL modem and PC are powered up and operational, there should be LINK lights (usually green LEDs) lit beside the RJ45 sockets at both ends.

    When connecting a DSL modem to the specially designated WAN port of a router (for instance), a straight-through ethernet cable is usually required.

    With other configurations, the general rule is that NIC-to-hub needs a straight-through cable, but NIC-to-NIC and hub-to-hub require cross-over cables.
What is a PPPoE connection?
     PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet) is the most common way for users to access the Internet from their home computers. It allows a computer to connect with an Internet server and, using various specialized applications, use e-mail, browse the Web, FTP, gopher, telnet, and other Internet functions. Usually PPP is used with a dial-up modem, but in our case it's used with your DSL, hence the "over Ethernet".
What is DHCP?
     The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a means of automatically distributing essential network configuration data (IP addresses) to PCs connected to large networks. The settings that are automatically distributed are typically:

    IP address
    IP sub-net mask
    IP Default Gateway address
    DNS server IP address(es)
    DHCP server IP address

    The configuration is not distributed on a permanent basis, but for a fixed time period, known as the DHCP lease, which typically varies from a few hours to a few days. The PC's operating system will renew the lease periodically. If a lease is not renewed before it expires, the DHCP system is free to reallocate the previously leased IP address to someone else. If a lease is renewed before it expires, then it is almost always the case that the same configuration is obtained as in the old lease.
How do I know if I need a PPPoE connection or not?
     If your DSL modem is a Paradyne Superline brand, then you need either a PPPoE conection or a static IP address ($10 per month fee).

If your DSL modem brand is Comtrend, Telmax, or Aerscom, then you don't need to establish a connection to the internet, because you use DHCP. You just need to set your IP setting to "obtain an IP address automatically".
Why do we use DHCP?
     The network configuration data listed above could in principle be set manually by the user, or by an installer program, but we prefer to use DHCP to allocate addresses dynamically. This is because our networks are subject to growth and re-organization, which might require some customer PCs to be assigned new addresses.
DHCP Problem Solving
     DHCP failure is often the first visible symptom of an underlying problem: in other words, often the problem is not actually a DHCP problem. The majority of users' problems with DHCP (such as inability to acquire or renew a lease, suffering disconnection every few hours, etc) are caused by one of the following:

    Incorrect configuration of firewalls.
    Swapping the PC connected to the DSL modem.
    Loss of local network (LAN) connection.

See DHCP Troubleshooting
How do I set up a PPPoE connection in WindowsXP?
     1. Go to "Start" -> "Control Panel"
    2. Click on "Network & Internet Connections"
    3. Click on "Network Connections"
    4. Click on "Create a new Connection"
    5. Click "Next"
    6. Check off "Connect to the Internet" -> Click "Next"
    7. Check off "Set up my connection manually" -> Click "Next"
    8. Check off "Connect using a broadband connection that requires a user name and password" -> Click Next
    9. Type in your ISP's name, (i.e. CCCOMMDSL) -> Click "Next"
    10. Enter your username as provided by CC Communications
    11. Enter your password as provided by CC Communications, enter it a second time to confirm -> Check "Use this account name" -> Check "Make this the default Internet connection" -> Click "Next"
    12. UnCheck "Add a shortcut to this connection to your desktop" -: Click "Next"
    13. Click "Connect"

     Note: There have been many cases where Step 9 does not work for people. The Username and Password option is grayed out. At Step 8 click on the Dial-up option and fill that out then start over.
How do I set up a PPPoE connection in Windows Vista?
     1. Go to "Start" -> "Control Panel"
    2. Click on "Classic View" in the upper left
    3. Click on "Network & Sharing Center"
    4. Click on "Set up a connection or network" in the menu on the left
    5. Select "Connect to the internet" and click "Next"
    6. If asked, select "Set up a new connection anyway"
    7. Click on "Broadband (PPPoE)"
    8. Fill in your username (NOT your email address!) and your password
    9. Check the boxes that say "Remember Password" and "Allow other people to use this connection"
    10. Enter CCCOMM-DSL in the "Connection Name" field
    11. Click on "Connect"
    12. Click on "Finish" once a connection has been established
    13. Close everything and return to the Windwos Vista desktop
    14. Open the Control Panel as described above
    15. Click on "Internet Options"
    16. Click on the "Connections" tab on the top"
    17. Click on the connection that you just created, then click "Set Default"
    18. Click on the dot next to "Always dial my default connection"
    19. Click "OK" at the bottom
    20. Close the Control Panel. You're finished!
How do I get PPPoE in Windows XP to log in automatically on boot?
     1. In Control Panel open "Network Connections"
    2. Right click on your broadband connection icon and select "Properties"
    3. Uncheck "Prompt for name and password..."
    4. Click "OK"
    5. Open your "C:\Documents and settings" folder
    6. Open the "All Users" folder
    7. Open the "Start Menu" folder
    8. Open the "Programs" folder
    9. Go to your Programs Folder -> Startup
    10. Copy a short-cut of your Broadband Connection, from the Network Connections folder in to the "Startup" folder
PPPoE Error Codes
 Click here to find out!
I still can't connect. What number do I use to call the internet support desk?
     If you still can't connect, the first thing you need to do is power cycle your DSL modem. Pull the power cable to the modem, leave it off for a few seconds, then plug it back in. After the self test has finished and all the lights have returned to normal, you should then repeat the process with your DSL/Cable Router, if you have one. Once your router has finished it's self test, restart your computer and try the internet again. If it still isn't up, call our internet helpdesk at 428-1111, any time, day or night.
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Dial-up Questions
 
QuestionAnswer
Setting up Dial-Up Networking

    Windows comes with all the software necessary to connect your computer to the internet, in the form of Dial-Up Networking. There are several steps involved to get Dial-Up Networking to connect to an internet account. For some reason, simply installing the Dial-Up Networking component of Windows isn't enough - the correct drivers aren't installed, and the settings aren't correct. This section outlines the steps needed install Dial-Up Networking correctly on your system, and configure it for optimum performance. Note that these are general instructions, and while they should work most of the time, might not work in all circumstances.
What information do I need to get started?
Here a list of information you need to get from your Internet Service Provider (ISP - us!) before you can use Dial-Up Networking.

  • A local phone number (423-2555).
  • Your username and password.
  • The domain name of your ISP (usually cccomm.net).
  • Whether your ISP supports PPP or SLIP (CC Communications supports PPP):
  • Any Windows-compatible modem of at least 33.6 kbps (56.6 kbps preferred), installed and functioning. Make sure it's configured correctly by double-clicking on the Modems icon in Control Panel.

Installing Dial-Up Networking Components
Take the following steps to insure you have the proper components installed: Part 1:   (Windows95/98/ME)
  • Double-click on the Add/Remove Programs icon in Control Panel.
  • Click on the Windows Setup tab, highlight Communications in the list of components, and click Details.
  • Make sure you have a checkmark next to the Dial-Up Networking component. If not, check it now, and press OK; you'll be asked to restart your computer at this point.
Part 2:   (All versions of Windows)
  • Double-click on the Network icon in Control Panel.
  • You'll need the following network components installed:
    • Microsoft Family Logon
    • Dial-Up Adapter
    • TCP/IP
  • If you don't have any or all of these installed, click Add... to add them to your list. Notes: TCP/IP is known as a "protocol," and Microsoft Family Logon is known as a "client." All of these components can be found by selecting "Microsoft" in the "Manufacturers" list.
  • Note: if you have other adapters installed, such as a network card, make sure TCP/IP is installed for the dial-up adapter.
  • If you made any changes here, you'll have to restart Windows.
Configuration (Windows 95/98/ME)
     
Once you've obtained the necessary information, and have installed the correct drivers, you can configure Dial-Up Networking to work with CC Communications Internet.

  • Double-click on the Dial-Up Networking icon in My Computer. (Windows 95/98. For WindowsME, look in the control panel)
  • Double-click on Make New Connection, if you don't already have one.
  • Enter a name for this connection (CCCOMM Dial-up), and select the correct modem from the list.
  • Click Configure, to make sure your modem is configured correctly. Set the maximum speed to 57,600 for 14.4 modems and 115,200 for 28.8 or faster mode?s. You might want to turn up the volume until you're sure the connection works. Make sure Only connect at this speed is not checked, and click OK when you're done.
  • Click Next, and then type in the phone number obtained from CC Communications - 423-2555.
  • Click Next, and then Finish.

  • Then, right-click on your new connection, and select Properties.
  • Choose the Server Types tab, and turn off all of the options below except for Enabled software compression and TCP/IP.
  • Click TCP/IP Settings..., select Make sure that "Server assigned IP address" and "Server assigned name server addresses" are checked. Also make sure the 2 check boxes at the bottom are checked.
  • Click Ok and Ok again.

  • Double-click on the connection to connect!

Configuration (Windows 2000)
 Click here to find out!
Configuration (Windows XP)
 Click here to find out!
Configuration (Mac)
1. To begin:
  • Go to the Apple Menu located in the upper left corner of your screen.
  • Choose Control Panels, then TCP/IP.
  • You should now see the TCP/IP control panel.
2. Next: Set User Mode
  • Choose the Edit menu then User Mode.
  • Select Basic and click OK.
3. Next: Make Configuration
  • Choose File and Configurations.
  • Select the choice Default.
  • Click Duplicate and name the configuration CCCOMM.
  • Select the choice CCCOMM and click Make Default.
4. Next: Define Connection
  • Change the Connect Via: pull down menu to PPP.
  • Under Setup set Configure: to Using PPP Server.
  • In the Name server address: field enter 64.113.160.162
  • Close the TCP/IP window and save if prompted to.
5. Next: Configure Remote Access
  • Go to the Apple Menu and choose Control Panels then TCP/IP.
  • Choose the File menu then Configurations.
  • Select Default from the list, and click Duplicate.
  • Name the connection CCCOMM.
  • Click Make Active.
6. Next: Creating the CCCOMM connection
  • In the window named Remote Access CCCOMM, click Registered User.
  • In the Name: field enter your CCCOMM user name.
  • In the Password: field enter your CCCOMM password.
  • Click Save Password.
  • In the Number: field enter 423-2555.
7. Next: Connecting to the Internet for the first time.
  • Close the Remote Access window.
  • Click Save.
  • Open the Remote Access window again. (Go to Apple Menu, then Control Panels)
  • Enter your password, if prompted to type it, and click Dial.
General Troubleshooting
    If your connection (or any of your Internet applications) don't work, or you're experiencing poor performance, the problem could be caused by any number of things. Here are a few possibilities:

  • It could an ISP problem:
    • Dial the number (423-2555) manually with your telephone and see if you hear beeps on the other end, and not an answering machine, a busy signal, or a Chinese restaurant.
    • Make sure your internet account is actually functioning - it can take up 24 hours after you subscribe before you can use your account. Our internet support desk can tell you if your account is active or not.
    • If all else fails, contact CC Communications internet support for help (428-1111) - since many folks use Windows, we'll probably be able to diagnose and solve the problem easily.

  • Don't rule out hardware problems:
    • Make sure your modem is turned on, functioning correctly, and configured correctly by using HyperTerminal to connect to the same number. Note: if you don't use a true Windows communications program, you're not testing the modem configuration!
    • If you're connecting, but not at a satisfactory speed, try replacing the phone cord.
    • Try restarting Windows to see if that helps, and make sure there aren't any other programs trying to use your modem or communications port.
    • If all else fails, you'll have to contact the manufacturer of your modem for technical support and possibly a driver or bios update.

  • If things are just too slow:
    • Newer drivers (obtained from the manufacturer of your modem) can improve performance.
    • Noisy phone lines can slow connections because your modem is spending more time with error correction; try replacing your phone cables. If noise continues, please notify the internet support desk at 428-1111 so that they can submit a repair ticket for you.
    • Test your throughput by transferring a binary file (any file other than text - text files aren't a reliable indicator, due to compression). After you've done the math, you should experience about 1.6 kilobytes/second with a 14,400 connection, 3.4 kilobytes/second with a 28,800 connection, and 14 kilobytes/second with a 56,600 connection connection.
    • Dial-up Networking Error Codes
    		 Click here to find out!
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    ?

    WinPoET Questions
     
    QuestionAnswer
    How do I know if I need a PPPoE connection or not?
    		 If your DSL modem is a Paradyne Superline brand, then you need either a PPPoE conection or a static IP address ($10 per month fee).

    If your DSL modem brand is Comtrend, Telmax, or Aerscom, then you don't need to establish a connection to the internet, you just need to set your IP setting to "obtain an IP address automatically".
    I understand that WinPoET has a new Macintosh equivalent called MacPoET. What versions of the Macintosh does the MacPoET product support?
    		 MacPoET requires the following on your Macintosh system:

    Mac OS computer equipped with a PowerPC CPU

    Open Transport 1.1.1 or higher

    System 7.6 or higher
    I do not see the WinPoET icon in my system tray. How do I make it reappear?
    		 Open the folder in which you installed WinPoET (the default location is C:\Program Files\iVasion\WinPoET) and double-click "WinPPPoverEthernet.exe."
    When I try to install WinPoET on my Windows 98 computer, it says that I must have Dial-Up Networking (DUN) installed. However, when I go to the Control Panel's Add/Remove Programs Properties applet, Windows Setup page, in the Communications details, I see that the Dial-Up Networking compon?nt is already selected. What is the problem?
    		 If DUN was correctly installed at one time and then removed through the Control Panel's Network applet, Windows will still show the DUN component check box as selected. To resolve the discrepancy, clear the check box, restart your computer, go back to the Add/Remove Programs Properties applet, select the check box again, and then restart your computer once more.
    When I try to run your included Dial-Up Networking (DUN 1.3) update on my Windows 98 computer, I get a message instructing me to go to the Control Panel. Why is this?
    		 The DUN update included with WinPoET is for Windows 95 users only. Windows 98 has DUN 1.3 support built in. To enable DUN for Windows 98, open the Control Panel's Add/Remove Programs Properties applet. On the Windows Setup page, go to the Communications details and check the Dial-Up Networking and Microsoft Virtual Private Networking boxes.
    I would like to use an analog modem (standard computer modem) as well as my WinPoET connection. Is this possible?
    		 Yes, however note the following:
    In Windows 95, you must first install WinPoET, and then add the modem.
    In Windows 98, there are no special instructions.
    In Windows NT, both the analog modem and the PoET Adapters must be configured as RAS capable devices.
    I would like to share my Internet connection. How is this possible?
    		 We recommend plugging your DSL line into the uplink port of your hub and putting WinPoET on each machine, eliminating the need for any sharing software.

    We also recommend the user of PPPoE capable routers, such as LinkSys brand, that will eliminate the need for the WinPoET software on each computer.
    I'm trying to connect under Windows NT and getting the error: "Error 692: Hardware failure in port or attached device."
    		 This can occur after upgrading to a newer version of WinPoET on Windows NT; for example, from 1.4 to 2.0. Just as you add the iVasion PoET Adapter manually with the 1.4 installation, the same must be done while uninstalling. Remove the PoET Adapter manually after uninstallation, then proceed with the new installation.
    NOTE: If WinPoET is your only "RAS capable device" remove the RAS Service first. Then proceed to removing the adapter manually.
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    Downloads
     
    These downloads are useful for keeping your computer cleaned and well maintained.
    The links below are provided for your assistance only. Use them at your own risk.
    C.C. Communications does not offer any type of support in the use of these programs.
    For assistance with any of these programs, please contact the software vendor / author.

    Program TitleRatingLocationDescription
    SpyBot Search and Destroy!
    		 ***** SpyBot_1.4
    Spybot - Search & Destroy can detect and remove spyware of different kinds from your computer. Spyware is a relatively new kind of threat that common anti-virus applications do not yet cover. If you see new toolbars in your Internet Explorer that you didn't intentionally install, if your browser crashes, or if you browser start page has changed without your knowing, you most probably have spyware. But even if you don't see anything, you may be infected, because more and more spyware is emerging that is silently tracking your surfing behaviour to create a marketing profile of you that will be sold to advertisement companies. Spybot-S&D is free, so there's no harm in trying to see if something snooped into your computer, too :)
    HiJackThis
    		 ***** HijackThis.exe
    HijackThis is a tool that lists all installed browser add-on, buttons, startup items and allows you to inspect, and optionally remove selected items. The program can create a backup of your original settings and also ignore selected items. Additional features include a simple list of all startup items, default start page, online updates and more. Intended for advanced users.

    WARNING!

    Use this program at your own risk!
    Shoot the Messenger!
    		 ***** shootthemessenger.exe
    In addition to being a security risk, Windows' "Messenger Service" is being used to "Spam" Windows users across the Internet.

    This 22 kbyte "Shoot The Messenger" utility gives users immediate control over the Windows Messenger service.
    WinPoet PPPoE Dialer
    		 ***** winpoet.zip
    		 Winpoet is a windows "dialer" that is required to create the PPPoE connection necesary to connect to the internet.

    Winpoet is NOT needed for windowsXP or Windows Vista, but is required by any earlier version of windows.
    MacPoet PPPoE Dialer
    		 ***** macpoet.hqx
    		 Macpoet is a Macintosh "dialer" that is required to create the PPPoE connection necesary to connect to the internet.
    WinZip
    		 ***** Winzip
    		 WinZip enables you to quickly and easily compress and decompress files, folders, and entire folder trees to save storage space and dramatically reduce e-mail transmission time, as well as encrypt and decrypt your sensitive documents. WinZip includes two separate interfaces to accommodate all types of users. For those who are infrequent users of Zip files or just need to accomplish basic tasks quickly and easily, the Wizard interface provides simple, step-by-step guidance to make working with Zip files a breeze. For those who are comfortable with Zip files and need greater power and flexibility, the WinZip Classic interface has everything you need. Whichever interface you choose, the other interface is just a click away.
    Adobe Acrobat Reader
    		 ***** Adobe
    		 This software lets you view and print Adobe PDF files.
    SmartFTP
    		 ***** SmartFTP
    		 SmartFTP allows you to transfer files across the Internet. It features an Explorer-like interface that is fully customizable and supports drag-and-drop functions. Multiple FTP connections can be opened at the same time, and you can copy files from one remote host to another. Great for uploading your personal webpages!
    Real Player
    		 ***** Real Player
    		 It's a player, jukebox and music store all in one!

     
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    Gaming Issues

      On-line gaming performance issues


          The most common complaint from on?line gamers is that they experience too high a latency or ping time (technically known as the round trip time, RTT, usually measured in milliseconds) when playing games connected to an on-line game server via the internet. Often the latency times they complain of from their game are far higher than the RTTs measured by system commands such as ping or tracert. Game users often also report suffering from higher packet loss than detected by system utilities.

          Possible causes of high ping times and packet loss in on-line games are that:

      • the game's network traffic is exceeding the dsl modem's rate cap, and the dsl modem itself is therefore causing network packets to be delayed or lost;
      • the game's network traffic is exceeding the game server's per-client rate cap - a mechanism which can be used by server admins to limit the natural advantage that cable/DSL users have over slow modem users. For instance, Barrysworld servers set a rate cap of 10000 bytes per second.

          A possible cause of this is that some games, when they detect that (or are told that) the connection is via ethernet, automatically switch themselves into a configuration designed for a 10Mbps LAN connection, where very high network traffic is possible. The game is ignorant of the rate capping in the dsl system, and overloads the connection, causing the latency. The rate capping in the dsl system will generally be non-destructive for TCP traffic, but many games use UDP (unreliable datagram protocol), where rate capping can lead to packet loss as well as high ping times. The downstream and upstream network demands of a game are reasonably symmetric, whereas most dsl modem rates are not, so it is the lower upstream rate that "caps" or affects game-players most.

          Therefore, many network games require their configuration to be tweaked so that they are aware that the internet connection is slower than a normal LAN connection. DO THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK! You should tweak the game down to the safe throughput of your upstream connection: for instance a 384kbps upstream can sustain only about 36000 bytes per second before rate-capping begins to take effect, and even that assumes a clear network path to an uncapped server: if the network is congested, or the server capped, a lower value will be required. Many game service providers cap the per-client data rate at 10000 bytes per second, so there is no point trying higher than this.

          The procedure for tweaking will be different for each game. Here for instance is a direct quote from the Unreal site:

          If you are seeing significant lag while playing Unreal Tournament, try adjusting your netspeed.  You can do this by typing netspeed xxxx (where xxxx is a value in bytes/sec).  Your new netspeed will be saved.  Typically you will want to adjust the netspeed setting down if you are seeing poor performance, because laggy network play is very likely because your connection cannot handle the rate selected for it.  Netspeed is set by default based on your selection of your network connection in the networking menu.  The default values are 2600 for modems, 5000 for ISDN, and 20000 for xDSL, cable modem, and LAN.   For example, some cable modems limit upstream bandwidth.  For cable modems, try netspeed 10000 or lower if you are seeing poor network performance.

          In other games, look for console command? called cl_rate or rate to set the maximum network data rate in bytes per second.

          Other sites recommend settings in the range 6000-10000 for dsl connections. [A "dsl connection" is an ill-defined object, as different internet providers apply different upstream caps, and it is the cap that is the significant thing. C.C. Communications DOES NOT CAP the upstream rate. Your upstream rate is determined by "train rate" of your DSL modem, based on your distance from the telco or it's remote access points. This in not typical of most internet service providers, who do cap their upstream rates.

          General help and tweaking tips for network games are available at http://guides.barrysworld.com/. For many games, they provide optimal network settings for certain classes of modems.

      Quake III Arena: See http://guides.barrysworld.com/quake3/tweakingq3/ for general advice. They give no specific advice for dsl modems, but the following should give good results:

      /cl_rate 10000
/cl_maxpackets 40
/snaps 40

      HalfLife/CounterStrike: See: http://guides.barrysworld.com/cs/tweaking/ for general advice. They give no specific advice for DSL modems, but the following should give good results:

      rate 10000

          If you are unable to limit the game's network traffic by means of a console command, there might be menu options to describe the nature of the network connection. It is probably correct to select DSL/Cable, but it is certainly wrong to select LAN. You should select the description which is equal to, or next lower than, your upstream rate. For instance, a 64kbps-downstream/32kbps-upstream user should use the same settings as a 56kbps dial-up modem, and a 512kbps-downstream/128kbps-upstream user should select Dual-ISDN, if available, or the next lower setting.

          If you have a home LAN with multiple simultaneous network game clients on a dsl connection, each should set their data rate to an even lower value, such that the sum of all game data rates does not exceed the upstream data rate.

          Most game server hosts recommend that to check the inherent network ping time to your game server, you should use the ping command in a command prompt window. Please be aware that due to massive amounts of virus traffic, "ping" has been disabled on C.C. Communications internet system. It logically follows that the tracert command will not work either, since it relies on the ping command. You will not be able to tweak your game based on the results of either of these two tests.

      DirectPlay and VoIP issues

          Many peer-to-peer games and peer-to-peer Voice-over-IP applications (such as GameVoice, née Battlecom) use the Microsoft DirectPlay API.

          If a remote DirectPlay application needs to make an incoming connection to your PC, and your PC is behind a NAT router, then you need to configure the NAT router to send the incoming DirectPlay connections to the correct destination. See:

      http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q240/4/29.ASP and
      http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q273/8/74.ASP.

          C.C. Communications offers several different type of dsl service. If your internet connection was installed using either a Comtrend, Telmax, or Aerscom brand dsl modem, then you are behind our NAT firewall/router. There will are no incoming applications allowed to connect to your PC. If you also have your own dsl router/firewall, then you are what is called "double NAT'ed". Making the game host's recommended changes to your router/firewall will have no effect.

          Since all the participants in the game have to talk to all the others the amount of network traffic increases roughly as the square of the number of players, which has implications for cable modem rate caps.

          If you use a game and a VoIP application (such as GameVoice, Roger Wilco) simultaneously, there is usually enough bandwidth in a 512kbps or better broadband connection for the two to work side by side providing you select one of the higher compression ratios in the VoIP application.
    TOP


    General Questions
     
    QuestionAnswer
    Configuring AOL to work with CC Communications Internet
    		 To connect via CCCOMM:
    1. Connect to CCCOMM as Usual.
    2. Start America Online.
    3. On the Sign On screen, select your Home-via ISP location from the Select Location: list.
    4. Click Sign On.
    How to set up the CCCOMM ISP Location:
    1. On the Sign On screen, click Setup.
    2. On the AOL Setup screen, click Add Location.
    3. In the Add Location window, click Select a connection using one of these available devices
    4. and select TCP/IP:LAN or ISP(Internet Service Provider) from the list.
    5. In the Name: box, change the default name to Home-via ISP.
    6. Click Next. A TCP/IP location will be created.
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    Linksys Routers
     
    QuestionAnswer
    I cannot connect to the Internet using the BEFSR41, what do I do to get online?

    If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, follow the following steps:

      1.      Internet service:  Check with your Internet Service Provider to make sure that service is active.  You usually can determine a good link to the service if you can bypass the BEFSR41, and plug directly into the modem provided by your ISP, to make sure you that you are getting a good Internet connection.  This will narrow the issue down to either the service, or the router. 

      2.      Network cables:  Verify that the network cables that connect the network together are plugged into the correct ports as they should (modem into the WAN/Internet port, computers into 1, 2, 3, or 4).  Also try to change some or all of the network cables that attach to devices coming from the BEFSR41, because you may have bad cables.

      3.      Router configuration:  Your router may not be configured to use your Internet service properly.  While plugged into your provider’s modem and able to get online, run the bundled Router Setup Wizard CD-ROM that came with your router.  This will configure the router automatically for you. 

      ·          Note:  This program must be executed on the main computer when plugged directly into the providers modem unit and you must be able to get on the Internet

      4.       Manual configuration:  If the Setup Wizard CD-ROM from Step 3 fails to configure your router, you may need a manual configuration.  While plugged into the provider modem unit and able to get online, visit http://kb.linksys.com, and search for the name of your Internet service provider for detailed instructions on manual configurations.

      5.      Router firmware:  Upgrade your router to the latest firmware version.  Please go to http://www.linksys.com/download to download the latest version of firmware for your product.  After the upgrade, be sure to reset the router, by holding in the router’s reset button for 30 seconds and reconfiguring it for use with your service (Step 3 or Step 4).

    How do I setup a static IP address that will work with my router?

    This document assumes that the LAN IP address of the router is 192.168.1.1.  If not, then please adjust accordingly.

    Windows 2000/XP

    1. Click on the Start menu, and then click on the Run option.
    2. When the “Run” window appears, input control ncpa.cpl into the “Open” field.
    3. After the “Network and Dial up Connections” or “Network Connections” window opens, right click on the Local Area Connection or Wireless Network Connection which controls the connection to the router.
    4. After the “Local Area Connection Properties” or the “Windows Network Connection Properties” window appears, click on Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) then click on the Properties button.
    5. Once the “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties” window opens, change the option from “Obtain an IP address automatically” to Use the following IP address.  Set the options under “ Use the following IP address” and “Use the following DNS server addresses” to the following:
    • IP: 192.168.1.20 (If there are multiple computers being setup with static IP's, then the next computer would be .25, and next would be .30, etc)
    • Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
    • Default Gateway: 192.168.1.1
    • Preferred DNS server:  192.168.1.1
    1. Click OK then OK or Close.
    Windows 98/ME
    1. Click on the Start menu, and then click on the Run optio?.
    2. When the “Run” window opens, input control netcpl.cpl into the “Open” field, then click on the OK button.
    3. When the “Network” window opens, locate the TCP/IP for the Wireless or Ethernet adapter in the PC, and click on it.   Once it’s highlighted, click on the Properties button.
    4. Change option from Obtain Automatically to Specify and input:
    • IP: 192.168.1.20 (If there are multiple computers being setup with static IP's, then the next computer would be .25, and next would be .30, etc)
    • Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
    1. Click on the Gateway tab, and input 192.168.1.1 into the “Default Gateway” field and click the Add button.
    2. Click on the DNS Configuration tab, then go to the “Host Name” field and input Computer, then go to the “DNS Server Search Order” field and input 192.168.1.1 then click the Add button.
    3. Click OK then OK once more, then windows will prompt for a restart.
    When I plug my computer into a port on my hub/switch/router, the link lights blink, what can I do?

    Please see the following instructions per your version of Windows:

    Windows XP

      1.      From the desktop, click on the Start button, then choose the Control Panel icon.
      2.      After the “Control Panel” loads look for Network Connections, and double click on the icon.  If the Network Connections icon is not listed, then look for “Switch to Classic View” link on the left hand side of the Control Panel and click on it.
      3.      When the “Network Connections” window opens, check to make sure that there are no Mac Bridges, WAN Bridges, etc.  If there are please right click on them and click on Delete.
      4.      After completing the last step, double click on the Local Area Connection that controls your network card (Normally will be the only one listed).
      5.      When the “Local Area Connection Status” window loads, click the Properties button.
    ?ul>6.      When the “Local Area Connection Properties” window opens, click on the Configure button, then click on the Advanced Tab.
      7.      When the “Advanced” area loads click on the Connection Type option under “Properties”. (This may also appear as “Media Type”, “Connection Speed”, “Link Speed”, please try to find the closest match for your system.)
      8.      Change option in the “Value” area from “Auto” or “Auto Sense” to the 10Base-t, 10 half duplex mode, 10 no duplex. This may also vary, depending upon the make and model of the Network Adapter.
      9.      Click OK after you made the change then click Close.

    Windows 2000

      1.      From the desktop, click on the Start button, then point to Settings then choose the Control Panel icon.
      2.      After the “Control Panel” loads, look for Network and Dial-up Connections, and double click on the icon.
      3.      When the “Network and Dial-up Connections” window opens, double click on the Local Area Connection that controls your network card (Normally will be the only one listed).
      4.      When the “Local Area Connection Status” window loads, click the Properties button.
      5.      When the “Local Area Connection Properties” window opens, click on the Configure button, then click on the Advanced Tab.
      6.      When the “Advanced” area loads click on the Connection Type option under “Properties”. (This may also appear as “Media Type”, “Connection Speed”, “Link Speed”, please try to find the closest match for your system.)
      7.      Change option in the “Value” area from “Auto” or “Auto Sense” to the 10Base-t, 10 half duplex mode, 10 no duplex. This may also vary, depending upon the make and model of the Network Adapter.
      8.      Click OK after you made the change then click Close.

    Windows 95/98/ME

      1.      From the desktop, click on the Start button, then point to SettingsControl Panel icon.
      2.      When “Control Panel” opens, double click the Network icon.
      3.      When the “Network Configuration” window opens, highlight the icon with the green logo for your network adapter and click on the Properties button.
      4.      This will display the “Network Adapter's Properties”, click on the Advanced tab.
      5.      When the “Advanced” area loads click on the Connection Type option under “Properties”. (This may also appear as “Media Type”, “Connection Speed”, “Link Speed”, please try to find the closest match for your system.)
      6.      Change option in the “Value” area from “Auto” or “Auto Sense” to the 10Base-t, 10 half duplex mode, 10 no duplex. This may also vary, depending upon the make and model of the Network Adapter.
      7.      Once this is changed, click OK to return to the Network configuration screen.
      8.      Click OK again and windows will ask to restart your computer.
    What is Port Forwarding and how do I use it?

    Port forwarding is a method that allows you to run a server behind the router.  Port Forwarding opens a specific port to a computer behind the router, allowing all Incoming Traffic on that port to be sent directly to that server.  It should be used to setup servers behind the router, typically Port Triggering (Answer ID 344) is a better choice for non server applications (Such as instant messengers and game servers).

    Below is an example of how to setup Port Forwarding.  For our example we will be setting an FTP Server and a Mail Server that uses SMTP and POP3.

    • FTP uses ports:  20 and 21

    • SMTP uses port: 25

    • POP3 uses port: 110

    Getting Started

      1. You must set a static IP address on the server.  If you're unsure of how to do this please go to Answer ID 534 for information on setting a static IP address in Windows.

      2. Once the static IP address has been assigned please go to your desktop and double click on Internet ?xplorer (Located on the Start Menu in Windows XP)

      3. Once "Internet Explorer" opens, please type http://192.168.1.1into the "Address Bar" and click GO

      4. The "Enter Network Password" window will appear.  Skip user name and type admin (admin is the default password) as the password, and click OK

      5. This will bring up the routers "Setup" section.  Look under "Domain Name" and check what version of the firmware you're using.

      6. You will need to click on the Advanced tab to the very right.  Once the "Advanced" tab comes up please go to the Forwarding tab.

    Firmware prior to 1.32

    This will not work with firmware prior to 1.32

    Firmware between 1.32 and 1.36

    Service Port Range

    20 ~ 21

    25 ~ 25

    110 ~ 110

    IP Address

    192.168.1.3

    192.168.1.3

    192.168.1.3

    Firmware after 1.36 up to 1.40m

    Service Port Range

    20 ~ 21

    25 ~ 25

    110 ~ 110

    Protocol

    Both

    Both

    Both

    IP Address

    192.168.1.3

    192.168.1.3

    192.168.1.3

    Firmware after 1.40m

    Customized Application

    FTP

    SMTP

    POP3

    Service Port Range

    20 ~ 21

    25 ~ 25

    110 ~ 110

    Protocol

    Both

    Both

    TCP

    IP Address

    192.168.1.3

    192.168.1.3

    192.168.1.3

    Finishing up

    Click Apply, then Continue

    Restart your computer

    How do I upgrade the firmware?on the router?

      1.       Unplug all computers except for one to make sure that there is no other network traffic on the router during the flash upgrade.

      3.       Select the Model number of the Linksys router you have and the OS you're running then click the Downloads for this Product button.

      4.       Once you arrive on the download page locate the area that says Firmware.

      5.       After the firmware page opens, click the link that says 'Click here' to download the latest firmware... and click on it.

      6.       Once you download the file unzip it.  If you do not have an unzipping program go to http://www.winzip.com to get Winzip which will allow you to unzip the file.

      7.       After unzipping the firmware, you will see a file called TFTP.EXE,   double click on it

      8.       When the “Upgrade Firmware” window opens, you’ll have three prompts.  The “Server” field is for the IP address of your router; by default this would be 192.168.1.1.

      9.       Enter the routers password into the “Password” field, by default the password is admin.

      10.  Browse for the file in the Firmware Upgrade utility program by clicking on the button next to file with the '…'.  Look for the file named 'code.bin' in the folder where the firmware distribution was extracted.

     

    Note - in recent firmware distributions, the file may no longer be named code.bin.  in the zip archive that the firmware is in, point to the file with the .bin extension,  there will only be one .bin file in the archive.

      11.  Highlight the code.bin file and click on the Open button to direct the tftp loader program to put that into the "File" box.

      12.  The full path should be displayed [example:  c:\linksys\code.bin].

      13.  Click on the Upgrade button to begin the upgrade procedure.

      14.  The upgrade should take about 1 minute, and you’ll be prompted after the upgrade procedure is complete.

    Note - Firmware upgrades are for the resolution of any problems you may be encountering with the router and not for additional features. Installing newer firmware on a presently-functioning router may result in router malfunction. Please be aware of this when downloading firmware.

      Firmware upgrades may erase all previous settings to your EtherFast Cable/DSL Router's configuration. Before upgrading your firmware, make sure to record your settings.

      If you are still having troubles, contact Linksys Technical Support.

    I changed the routers password, and I forgot what I changed it to. Is there anything I can do?

        Hold the reset button on the unit for 30 seconds or more and the router will be restored to factory defaults.  This also means that your configuration will be set to factory defaults also, so if your router is configured for your ISP you may loose your connection until you set the unit up again.  The default password for the router is admin in lower case letters.

    Where do I go to download drivers for my Linksys Product?

    The instructions belo