Contents
Welcome to Project: Annihilator

License Agreement

Copyright

Customer Access

Using the online documentation

What is a Client-Server BBS?

Network security issues


What is a Client-Server BBS?

Client/server, at its simplest level, is an architecture that involves client processes requesting service from server processes.  Client/server computing recognizes that those client modules need not all be executed within the same memory space, that is, the processes that distribute the information need not all be a part of the same single program. Separation of the client and server modules provides improved security and performance. By implementing a BBS with a core information server, and routing that information using a number of application clients at the sysop’s location, a system can be established that delivers more information at greater speed, even on a single PC running Windows 95.

Isn't It Complicated?

Use of the client/server model provides a number of advantages:

Standard Annihilator Modules Included With Every BBS Create a Foundation

Optional Annihilator Modules Increase Client/Server Power


Isn't It Complicated?

Client/server can be as simple as running two or three familiar programs on a single PC or as intricate as a multiple-PC network running several applications on each PC. The beauty of client/server model is that once you understand the relationship between the different executable programs (the clients and the servers) you can set it up in any of several ways that best meet your needs. The client/server model of Annihilator above is a simple setup with the server and all clients running on a single PC. The computer can operate under Windows 95 or Windows NT Workstation or Server. This configuration offers the most compact system and allows for total management from the single BBS computer. An alternative to operating all client executables on a single PC is to distribute the processing over a Microsoft Network. The server executable runs on a Windows NT (workstation or server) PC while the client modules can be run on either the server PC or networked PCs running either Windows 95 or Windows NT. The advantage of separating some client operations from the server is increased power through distributed processing. For example, in an extremely active system the sysop may find it advantageous to establish three PCs, one for the Server and TCP/IP connectivity, including WWW access, and two others, each running a rack of 32 modems with its own copy of the Modem Controller Client.

Use of the client/server model provides a number of advantages:


Use of the client/server model provides a number of advantages:

•1	32-bit Windows multitasking means no additional multitasking software is needed and 16-32 lines can be run easily without loading multiple copies of the BBS.

•1	The entire BBS configuration in our client/server model can be modified even while in full operation, but only by authorized personnel. The system server accepts change requests and implements them as soon as usage permits.

•1	The number of inbound sessions on a single computer is significantly increased. Thanks to the enhanced multitasking of both 32-bit Windows platforms, a much larger number of connections is possible on any given PC. As inbound access (via modem, telnet, HTTP, etc.) reaches the processor limits for any given PC, additional client PCs can be added which communicate automatically with the server. Clients for modems, HTTP, telnet and other activities can be operated on a single PC or on a variety of additional systems, depending on load.

•1	This new generation BBS can truly isolate the core of the host activities, providing secure, private system access even to local users. The server portion of the system is established in an area on disk with restricted user access.  The server controls all access to messages, files and other system information. Requests are submitted to the server by all support programs and third-party utilities through an easily adopted application program interface (API). This methodology has the added advantage of allowing the actual BBS program-flow code to be written in wcCODE and to be fully customizable.

True Client/server technology provides total flexibility.  It allows the sysop to offer a BBS on a desktop platform and to expand the system capabilities as desired.

Standard Annihilator Modules Included With Every BBS Create a Foundation


Standard Annihilator Modules Included With Every BBS Create a Foundation

Server module

Local or LAN Client

Online Client

QWK Echo Client

TAPI Client

Graphical Remote Client

Optional Annihilator Modules Increase Client/Server Power


Optional Annihilator Modules Increase Client/Server Power

UUCP Client [wcGATE]

Internet Package

MAPI Client

CODE Development Package [wcCODE]

Source Code

Database (SQL) Client

Reports Client [wcPRO]

Billing Client [wcBILLING]


Server module

This module provides the base functionality for processing all database and configuration requests through a published API structure.


Local or LAN Client

This module is included with every package and is used by anyone connecting at the host PC.  It can also be used by anyone on the network for local login. It is an ANSI text connection. Note that the Graphical Client used for remote connection also can be used locally for a graphical local connection.


Online Client

This module is included with every package and answers the phone for all dial-in lines. It can present the BBS information to a caller in ANSI, ASCII or in full graphics when called with the free remote graphical client.


QWK Echo Client

This module is included with every package and handles QWK mail exchange processing between the host and other BBSs.


TAPI Client

This module is included with every package and provides a link to the Windows Telephony Application Program Interface.  It talks to TAPI-aware add-on cards or hardware that offer ISDN, X.25 or other connectivity.


Graphical Remote Client

This module is a set of freely-distributable Windows programs for callers to experience full multimedia when connected.  This program suite operates on Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT and any OS/2 release with Windows support. It can also be run locally, over a LAN or via a telnet connection. The core language of the remote graphical client is HTML, the language of the World Wide Web.


UUCP Client [wcGATE]

This optional module handles dial-up Internet email and newsgroup support. It includes a dial-out program and mail tosser, allowing callers to send and receive Internet email and newsgroup messages. It also supports feeding messages to downline nodes.


Internet Package

This optional accessory package handles TCP/IP support and includes several individual clients. Note that many of the modules included with the Internet Client Package operate as clients to the BBS host, but act as a server to the wider Internet connection:

Telnet Module

FTP Module

WWW Module

IRC Module

SMTP Module

NNTP Module


Telnet Module

This module handles inbound telnet, connecting callers to the BBS when they connect from a remote internet site. In this mode it acts as a telnet server. With the Telnet module installed the BBS also supports outbound telnet sessions requested by callers, connecting them to other locations on the internet. In this mode the BBS acts as a telnet client for the caller. Inbound telnet connections support ANSI, ASCII and the graphical remote client interface.


FTP Module

This module handles inbound FTP file requests and functions as a FTP server. Requests can be made anonymously for a restricted file set, or using a name and password on the BBS for FTP access to files based on the caller’s access profile.


WWW Module

This module provides BBS connectivity to callers connecting using a WWW browser. It functions as an HTTP server that dynamically creates HTML files for file and message data and is fed by a  set of display files in HTML format customized by the sysop.


IRC Module

This module provides a link to internet relay chat to expand the live discussion capabilities of the BBS. It functions as an irc client for callers.  Note that standard inter-node chat is supported without this module.


SMTP Module

This module provides support for simple mail transfer protocol messaging and acts as a server for SMTP.  It provides the link to allow callers to send and receive internet email.


NNTP Module

This module provides support for network news transfer protocol messaging and acts as a NNTP client to process mail from an Internet NNTP server (many providers offer nntp mail services). It provides the link to allow callers to read and reply to usenet newsgroups.


MAPI Client

This optional module provides a link to the Windows Mail Application Program Interface.  It provides a mechanism to exchange messages between any application that supports MAPI such as Microsoft Mail, cc:Mail, Lotus Notes, etc. With MAPI support the sysop can easily establish a single repository for all messages by routing e-mail to Microsoft Exchange or any favorite mail package.


CODE Development Package [wcCODE]

This optional package is a new, enhanced high-speed 32-bit development language so powerful that all standard BBS functions are written in it. The CODE package allows the sysop to create custom BBS operations and programs to be run by the caller.


Source Code

For total customization of all online activity the wcCODE source for all BBS functions is available for purchase. (Requires wcCODE)


Database (SQL) Client

This optional module provides full remote connectivity to distributed database processing using the SQL standard.


Reports Client [wcPRO]

This optional module provides extensive reporting on BBS usage and activities.


Billing Client [wcBILLING]

This optional module provides a complete billing for pre-pay or post-pay systems.


License Agreement

This Software is Licensed, Not Sold

The software in this package is licensed according to the terms of the following agreement:

Software License Agreement

Important: Please read this page before using the disks. By opening the package containing the disks you acknowledge your agreement to the terms of this license.

Refund

If you do not wish to follow the terms of this license agreement, you may obtain a full refund by returning this package to your authorized dealer within three (3) days, provided you have not opened the sealed disk envelope.

Definitions

The term “Software” as used in this agreement means the full system and all utility computer programs contained on the disks in this package, together with any updates subsequently supplied by Mustang Software.

The term “Software Copies” means the actual copies of all or any portion of the Software, including back-ups, updates, merged or partial copies permitted hereunder or subsequently supplied by Mustang Software.

The term “Related Materials” means all the printed materials provided in this package or later supplied by Mustang Software for use with the Software.

Permitted uses

You may:

•	Use the Software on a single computer or on a single computer connected by direct cable to a network server. Additional dial-in workstations using the single line release must be licensed by Mustang Software. The network version may be used on multiple computers that are connected by a network, and share a single set of support files.

•	Install the Software onto a permanent storage device (a hard disk drive).

•	Make non-operational archival copies of the Software for backup purposes.

•	Make one working copy of the Software Program. If the working copy will no longer work properly, the Licensee may make another working copy of the Software Program but only if the inoperable working copy is destroyed. In addition, all the information appearing on the original disk labels (including the copyright notice) must be copied onto the working copy labels.

This license gives you certain limited rights to use the Software. You do not become an owner of and Mustang Software retains title to all the Software, Software Copies and Related Materials. In addition, you agree to use reasonable efforts to protect the Software from unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, or publication. All rights not specifically granted in this license are reserved by Mustang Software.

Uses not permitted

You may not:

•	Make copies of the Software, except as permitted above.

•	Make copies of the Related Materials.

•	In accordance with the Computer Software Rental Act of 1990, rent, lease, sub-license, lend or transfer the Software, Software Copies, Related Materials or your rights under this license without the prior written consent of Mustang Software, Inc.

•	Alter, decompile, disassemble, or reverse engineer the Software.

•	Remove or obscure the Mustang Software copyright and trademark notices.

This software and its documentation may not be provided by a “backup service” or any other vendor that does not provide an original package as composed by Mustang Software, Inc. including but not limited to all original documentation, insertions, registration cards, and software.

Duration

This agreement is effective from the day you open the sealed disk package. Your license until December 31, 1995 or until you return to Mustang Software the original disks and any back-up copies, whichever comes first.

If you breach this agreement, we can terminate this license by notifying you in writing. You will be required to return all Software, Software Copies and Related Materials. We may also enforce our other legal rights.

This pre-release version expires on December 31, 1995, and will not operate after that date.

General

This agreement represents our entire understanding and agreement regarding the Software, Software Copies and Related Materials and supersedes any prior purchase order, communications, advertising, or representations.

This license may only be modified in a written amendment signed by an authorized Mustang Software officer. If any provision of this agreement shall be unlawful, void, or for any reason unenforceable it shall be deemed severable from, and shall in no way affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions of this agreement. This agreement shall be governed by California law. You acknowledge that you have read every provision of this contract. By opening the envelope containing the disks, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to this contract.

Limited Warranty


Limited Warranty

MUSTANG SOFTWARE WARRANTS TO THE ORIGINAL LICENSEE OF A REGISTERED PRODUCT THAT THE PROGRAM DISK(S) ON WHICH THE PROGRAM IS RECORDED WILL BE FREE FROM DEFECTS IN MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP UNDER NORMAL USE AND SERVICE FOR A PERIOD OF NINETY (90) DAYS FROM THE DATE OF DELIVERY AS EVIDENCED BY A COPY OF YOUR RECEIPT. MUSTANG SOFTWARE’S ENTIRE LIABILITY AND YOUR EXCLUSIVE REMEDY SHALL BE REPLACEMENT OF THE DISK NOT MEETING MUSTANG SOFTWARE’S LIMITED WARRANTY IF RETURNED TO MUSTANG SOFTWARE DURING THE 90 DAY PERIOD.

EXCEPT FOR THE FOREGOING, THIS PRODUCT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE RESULTS AND PERFORMANCE OF THE PROGRAM IS ASSUMED BY YOU. MUSTANG SOFTWARE DOES NOT WARRANT, GUARANTEE, OR MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING THE USE OF, RESULTS OF, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR USE OF THE PRODUCT. SHOULD THE PROGRAM PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU (AND NOT MUSTANG SOFTWARE OR ITS DEALERS) ASSUME THE ENTIRE COST OF ALL NECESSARY SERVICING, REPAIR OR CORRECTION. FURTHER, MUSTANG SOFTWARE DOES NOT WARRANT, GUARANTEE, OR MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING THE USE OF, OR THE RESULTS OF THE USE OF THE PROGRAM IN TERMS OF CORRECTNESS, ACCURACY, RELIABILITY, CURRENTNESS, OR OTHERWISE; AND YOU RELY ON THE PROGRAM AND RESULTS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. MUSTANG SOFTWARE WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO SYSTEM DAMAGE, SERVICE, REPAIR, CORRECTION, LOSS OF PROFIT, LOST SAVINGS, OR ANY OTHER INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR SPECIAL DAMAGES OF ANY NATURE WHATSOEVER RESULTING FROM THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT.

Satisfaction Guarantee


Satisfaction Guarantee

Mustang Software wants you to be satisfied with your purchase of Wildcat! BBS. If for any reason you are not satisfied and wish to return Wildcat! BBS, you may do so within the first 30 days after purchase. Simply return the entire contents of the package, including the manual, disks, and registration card, to your dealer. Proof of purchase date is required. Returns direct to MSI can only be arranged if the product was purchased direct from MSI. Direct returns must be pre-approved and a return authorization number must be obtained in advance.


Copyright

© 1986, 1995 Mustang Software, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America.

The program Wildcat! BBS  is NOT in the public domain. It is copyrighted by Mustang Software, Inc. All rights reserved. Copying, duplicating, selling or otherwise distributing this product is a violation of the law.

This manual is also copyrighted and all rights are reserved. This document may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any electronic medium or machine readable form without prior consent in writing from Mustang Software. Mustang Software, Inc. may make improvements and/or changes to both this manual and the program Wildcat! BBS at any time.

Throughout this manual any commercial trade names mentioned are either trademarks or registered trademarks of their developers. Use of these trade names does not indicate an endorsement by the trademark owners.


Customer Access

Mustang Software, Inc. strongly believes in providing quality software at a reasonable price. We back our products with technical help when our registered users need it. Your registration information was entered in our customer records when you purchased this Preview Release.

Technical Support Services

MSI HQ! BBS

On-line services

Internet

MSI SupportNET

Voice support

Questions Other Than Technical Support

Software Updates

Satisfaction Guarantee


Technical Support Services

Wildcat! BBS is designed to be easy to use, and this copy of the Preview Release Online Documentation should contain the answers to most of your questions. Read it first. Make use of the [F1] help key for tips and explanations. If you’re still stumped, technical support is available in several ways.


MSI HQ! BBS

You may first want to call our private Wildcat! BBS for Registered Users at 805-873-2400 (telnet: bbs.mustang.com), and leave a quick question for our technical staff. This is a particularly useful way to receive expert guidance with the more advanced features of this pre-release edition of Wildcat!.


On-line services

CompuServe

Another alternative is CompuServe where we are a part of the PC Vendor Support Forum. To reach us, type GO PCVENA, then select Subtopic 9.

GEnie

You can also find us on GEnie, the on-line service from General Electric. Go to the MUSTANG Round Table with the command MOVE 680.

America On-line

MSI’s support section on America On-line is called MUSTANG and can be reached with the keyword MUSTANG.

Microsoft Network

Log onto MSN, and select Edit/Go To/Other location. Type MUSTANG in the popup window.


Internet

Our Internet mailing address for tech support is support@mustang.com. You can reach our MSI HQ BBS via telnet at bbs.mustang.com, and our World Wide Web page at http://www.mustang.com.


Voice support

The MSI HQ BBS should be your first line of defense with problems and bug reports with this special edition of Wildcat!. If after making use of the BBS you are still unable to find the answer to a question—or if you need a quick explanation, you may call us Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific time.

When calling for support please:

•	Have your registration number handy, from the card bound inside your Wildcat! BBS manual.

•	Record your Registration number here:

•	_____________________

•	Be at your computer with your manual handy.

•	Be ready to describe the problem in detail.

•	If possible, be ready to duplicate the problem on your system.

•	You can call technical support directly at (805) 873-2550.


MSI SupportNET

We also have a large number of BBS systems carrying the MSI SupportNET echo conferences throughout the US and Canada, and around the world. These BBSs are located in Australia, the United Kingdom, France, and Norway. The MSI SupportNET contact points outside the US are:

Location	Distributor	BBS Phone
Australia	Banksia Info. Tech.	+61 2-418-7693
France	Maxotex	+33 1-45-34-6430
Scandinavia	PC Security	+47 2-58-3358
United Kingdom	Telesystems	+44 49-489-1903
You can download a list of MSI SupportNET BBSs in the U.S. from the MSI HQ BBS.


Questions Other Than Technical Support

If you have questions related to shipping or other areas handled by our office staff you should contact us at 805-873-2500. Our office staff can help with changes to your registration information and handle all non-support questions regarding our product line.

We also have a toll-free number for questions regarding new product purchases or updates you can call 1-800-999-9619, Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm Pacific time. Our mailing address is Mustang Software, Inc., PO Box 2264, Bakersfield, CA 93303.


Software Updates

Wildcat! BBS is constantly undergoing enhancements and revisions. This is normal software maintenance. We encourage you to keep your software updated—we can provide the best support to users who are running the current major release. The cost is minimal and the benefits are great.


Using the online documentation

Online documentation for Project Annihilator is provided in the form of Windows Help files.

There are several ways to read these help files:

•	From any graphical Wildcat! Program (for instance MAKEWILD, wcDRAW, wcIDE)

Select Help from the menu and choose a topic, or

Press [F1] for help with the current procedure, or

Use the "?" button at the top right of any window, then click an item in that window for more information.

•	From the ANNI.HLP file (this file)

You can find information about all Wildcat! programs by clicking the Contents or Help Topics button at the top of this help screen.

•	From Windows Explorer

Double-click any file name with the extension .HLP

•	From an MS-DOS Prompt window

Type

START WINHELP [Enter]

Select a help file from the list.

To close any help window, press [Escape] (Windows 95) or [Alt][F4] (Windows NT).