Disclaimer (PLEASE READ) -- This page is in no way intended to suggest or endorse any particular internet service provder (ISP). It also does not imply that Ag Comm Computer Services (ACCS) supports or takes responsibility for issues related to non-NDSU ISP's. This information is offered solely as a service to our users and the accuracy of the information cannot be guaranteed. For additional support and information, please contact your ISP's technical support directly.

NDSU Dial-up Shutdown

As was previously announced, NDSU-ITS will be ending dial-up internet service for the NDSU campus at the end of May, 2005. This will affect anyone who currently dials into NDSU for Internet access (231-8660). Currently this will NOT affect users dialing into the NDSU 800 Watts line. However, please do not use the 800 number as a substitute for local NDSU service as there is a per minute charge. A list of alternatives for general Internet access can be found in NDSU-ITS' list of ISPs.

Additional information about the retirement of the NDSU modem pool can be found here:

• NDSU-ITS Modem Pool FAQ
• Semi-comprehensive list of available ISP's
  
  
  

Known Security Issues With Non-NDSU ISPs

With the switch from NDSU to alternative ISPs, some people may find some difficulty in utilizing their e-mail and other internet services. Often times this is due to the various security settings utilized by their new ISP. These security settings are often an unfortunate but necessary (according to certain internet providers) reaction to the increasing problems with spam and viruses. One of the most common settings that may cause people difficulty is the blocking of port 25.

Port 25 Blocking

Port 25 blocking is basically an internet provider's attempt to prevent you from sending e-mail from any account other than theirs while connected to their service. ISPs only have control over their e-mail systems, not over those provided elsewhere (such as ndsuext). To ensure spammers don't use uncontrolled e-mail accounts to send out spam, they block their users from sending e-mail from any account not controlled by the ISP.

For example:

If John connects to XYZ internet provider (who is blocking port 25) he can check and send mail from his XYZ account and can also check his ndsuext.edu mail. John CANNOT SEND mail from ndsuext.edu.

There is one exception to this: blocking port 25 does not always prevent someone from sending e-mail using a web client. This means you might still be able to send ndsuext mail if you log into http://info.ag.ndsu.nodak.edu and utilize the e-mail option there.

Known ISP's Currently Blocking Port 25: (locally available ISPs in bold print)

AT&T BellSouth CableOne Charter Comcast ATTBI Cox EarthLink Flashnet

MediaOne MindSpring MSN NetZero People PC Sprynet Sympatico.ca Verio Verizon

If you have questions about security settings or other e-mail/internet access issues, please contact your ISP's technical support for further assistance.