InBox

By DON McALLISTER

Welcome to InBox, where we attempt to answer your internet questions.

Q. "Due to this possible power crisis, should I shut down my machine?" asks Dave.

A. Every bit counts, Dave. The average computer uses 250W of power. If you shut it down you'll save about 1kWh every 4 hours (up to 6kWh a day). If your average daily household usage is 30kWh, this saves up to 20 per cent.

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Q. Craig has been accused of "Flaming". What does that mean?

A. A "Flame" is a calculated response intended to produce an overreaction. Internet misunderstandings often result in war between correspondents. Once a flame has left your outbox, it's too late. Defuse the situation with a witty, careful response that has been re-edited a few times. If you must retaliate, The Rules of Flaming explains how to do it with style.

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Q. Karl's caught the Jetstream speed craze - in his case the not so fast 128Kbps Jetstart package. "I've purchased the modem, but instructions provided are basically lacking in detail."

A. Each internet provider has a "Jetstream" help page that lists each of the required settings. In your case it's Xtra.

Many internal or USB modems use an ordinary dialup connection like your old modem - except the number dialled should only be zero. Most external networked modems and routers are set via an internal webpage using Internet Explorer by entering the unit's IP address, usually found in the modem manual (eg, http://192.168.*.*). If it still doesn't work, call Xtra's helpdesk.

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Q. Shaun's internet provider has billed him for excessive data usage. But he has only downloaded a bit of webpage browsing and a few dozen or so mp3 music files via KaZaA. "Could this loss be related to bandwidth stealing?" he asks.

A. No, it's not bandwidth stealing. You are getting files via KaZaA while others are leaching your files in return. Your KaZaA's logs will prove your taste of music is in demand by others. Reduce the available files in your shared directory or you will continue to pay for your generosity.


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