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Internet Support
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Wireless Modem Security Key SetupTCC offers Cable modems & DSL modems with built-in wireless routers. This gives you the capability of connecting more than one computer wired or wireless without any extra equipment (other than wireless network cards). A wireless modem is a free option with a TCChoice plan or if you are not on a choice plan, you can rent a wireless modem for just $4.49 per month with your TCC Internet service. You can install them yourself or have TCC do it for you. Click a link below to view instructions (pdf file).
FTP Server says my folder is a "Read Only" file when I try to uploadOn Monday, the server that stores residential web files ("www.triwest.net/~username" type file storage) was attacked by a hacker. To protect the server, FTP access has been restricted to "read only" which means you can log in to FTP and see what is out there but you may not add files or change files. Your files/web sites are still visible to the public so your web page and picture files are not down but you cannot modify them using the old server. Airstream has put in place a NEW web server for you to use. Your files have automatically be getting copied over to it from the new server in the last week. All you need to do to start using the new server is change your Host/Server address from "www.triwest.net" to "(your username).portalstream.net". For example, if your username is "bsmith" your new Host/Server address would be bsmith.portalstream.net. You make this change in the settings of the program you use for uploading. Below you will see screen shots for making the change from WS-FTP and CuteFTP, two popular FTP programs. If you have any questions or need assistance, just contact us and we'll be happy to help. We're really sorry this change is so sudden, but we wanted to prevent files from actually being manipulated by a hacker. The old setting may not ever be used again now that the new server is already in place.
Watch Out For Malware!
IF you get a strange pop-up notifying you of suspected viruses and an offer to clean them, be suspicious!! Click ONLY on the "X" in the upper right corner to close the window. If that does not work, use CTRL-ALT-DEL to close Internet Explorer or just shut the power down on your computer. Do not click anywhere in the pop-up. Virus & Spyware HelpViruses and Spyware Risks are a couple of the biggest problems internet users are faced with. Once they get a foot-hold on your computer it becomes controlled or "hijacked" to spam other users, attempt hacks into other networks, change your settings, delete files on your computer and much more. Click here for more. E-mail SetupUse our e-mail setup instructions for help setting up e-mail accounts or identities in Outlook Express. For help with other e-mail clients, please check the "Help" menu in that program or call our Help Desk at 1-800-326-4168. Frequently Asked Questions1. What should I know if I have a Wireless Modem? You should know about Security Keys and how to set your wireless modem up with one. Having your modem UNsecured opens you up to the risk of slow internet, viruses and spyware, having your personal information accessed and being party to illegal activity. 2. How do I set TCC Community Portal as my home page? Internet Explorer: Click "Tools" at the top, click "Internet Options" from the menu, click in the Address Bar at the top. Type http://www2.tcc.coop/communityportal/index.asp in the box. Click "OK". Mozilla Firefox: Click "Tools" at the top, click "Options" from the menu, click the "General" button on the left. Type http://www2.tcc.coop/communityportal/index.asp in the box. Click "OK". Your home page will be changed the next time you close and reopen your browser or click "Refresh" on the toolbar! 3. What are the settings involved with the dial-up process?
Other settings can probably be left as they are. Many default settings are already correct for Internet set-up. 4. What are file sharing programs (Limewire, Bit Torrent, etc) and are they okay to use? File sharing programs (p2p) like Limewire, Bit Torrent, Gnutella and eDonkey can be very risky to use. Most file sharing programs are free and allow anybody to share anything with no restrictions, permissions or requirements. These put you at risk of viruses, spyware, being compromised and being party to illegal behavior. More info 5. What might be causing dial-up connection problems? Typically phone lines and modem settings are the biggest problems with dial-up connections. Something else plugged into a phone line may be adding interference to the line, making it hard for dial-up modems to connect at a speed they are set for. Or some default modem and computer settings may not be the best for your computer and your modem. Here are some things to try: Go around the house/building and unplug all other devices plugged into a phone line including satellite receivers, cordless phones, fax machines, splitters, and fancy phones. Look at the phone line you have connected from your computer to the phone jack to make sure there are no signs of damage or wear. Check the back of your computer to make sure you have the phone line plugged into the Line/Telco side and not the Phone side. Now try dialing in again. If you try all of these and you still have problems, you may need to call our Help Desk or your phone company for additional suggestions. 6. How do I setup a new E-mail account or make changes to my existing account? First, we have to setup your new account on our system. Click here to email us to setup your new address. Next (or if you already have the address), use the instructions here to setup the email on your computer, along with setting up identities or managing multiple addresses. 7. How can I send an email attachment which exceeds the limit without using FTP or burning/mailing a CD? There are free one-time use e-mail services out there like MailBigFile.com, YouSendIt.com and SendYourFiles.com. For continued sending of large files, you should set up an FTP server, upload files to your (free) web space and let them be downloaded by your customers/users. 8. Where can I learn more about security and how to protect myself online? This web site outlines the basics for wireless security as well as some good preventative tips for securing your entire computer. DownloadsWe have made the following helpful Internet programs available for your convenience. Click download, save to your Desktop and click Open (or double click icon on desktop) to install. Once installed, you can get help using the program by opening the program and clicking Help at the top of the screen.
How to Contact UsBy Phone - New Number: 1-888-655-8642 -- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week By e-mail: Local Help: internet@tcc.coop |
One of the biggest current threats on the Internet are "rogue" Anti-Virus programs. These are programs that get onto your computer when you visit certain infected web sites. They bombard you with virus warnings and literally seize your Internet, utlimately leaving you unable to go anywhere other than their web site. They can also be a gateway to other viruses and threats. It is estimated that there are over 1,000 different varieties on the Internet and that number is growing every day. So far, no real AV programs have been 100% effective at preventing these programs. They are simply changing too quickly for any AV program to stay on top of what to look for. However, IF you have SecureIT+ you at least have the backing of a 24/7 help desk and guaranteed help or reimbursement, even if you have to take it to a repair shop.