Session Start: Sat Apr 15 06:07:58 2006
Session Ident: #opschool
[06:07] * Now talking in #opschool'
[06:07] * Set by X on Sat Apr 15 05:40:53
[06:07] * X sets mode: +o [nIckmenza]
[06:18] <[nIckmenza]> Hello everyone :o) [L1]
[06:18] <[nIckmenza]> Please sit back, turn your logging on and keep for later review. [L2]
[06:18] <[nIckmenza]> This instructional script is brought to you by the Undernet Channel Service Committee. Please send comments, suggestions, or remarks to cservice@undernet.org [L3]
[06:18] <[nIckmenza]> In this class, we will give you all of the answers to make Usernames & Channel Registrations easier to understand, and the guidelines we require for all channel applications. [L4]
[06:18] <[nIckmenza]> I'd like to welcome you all to the Undernet Channel Service OpSchool (Part One). [L5]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> Now for the rules of the class.... [L6]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> The teaching staff is divided up alphabetically. Each assistant will answer questions for the letter group they are assigned to: A-F_Tutor handles nicks starting with A through F and so on... [L7]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> MiscTutor handles nicks beginning with numbers or characters such as ^, ], _, and so on, French is "AideTout", Spanish "YoAyudo", Romanian "EuAjut". [L8]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> If your nick falls under the letter A, please use the tutor of the first letter in your nick (ex. Ace would /msg A-F_Tutor) [L9]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> Please direct your questions by private message to the tutor who covers your name group. [L10]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> The channel is moderated (+m) and may be set to invite-only (+i) to lessen interruptions. If you get disconnected, please message a tutor to be invited back into class. [L11]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> You will not be permitted to change your nickname during this class. A ban on *!*@* prohibits nickname changes. [L12]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> Do not message the instructor - My job is to keep the lesson flowing. Remember, you have tutors to answer your questions. [L13]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> The numbers you see at the end of the sentences are lesson reference numbers. Both you and the instructors can use these as a guide to help you keep track of where you are in the lessons. [L14]
[06:19] <[nIckmenza]> To get rid of disruptions of people leaving or quitting, you may wish to put these messages in your status window. In mIRC, go to options, and uncheck Joins/Parts in channel, and Quits in channel. [L15]
[06:20] <[nIckmenza]> We will now take a brief pause in order for you to turn on your logging and locate your tutor. [ph] [L16]
[06:20] <[nIckmenza]> While Undernet Channel Service has many methods of educating the network public about the nuances of our services, many people seem determined to avoid the FAQs, the online classes, and often even the common sense advice rendered in our help channel. [L17]
[06:20] <[nIckmenza]> This in turn ends up creating these work-producing, expectation-shattering ideas, several of which are simplistically explained below. [L18]
[06:20] <[nIckmenza]> Understanding the basic misconceptions held about Undernet Channel Services will make your username and channel registration and maintenance experience much easier. [L19]
[06:20] <[nIckmenza]> We'll start by learning how to create and register a username with X. [L20]
[06:21] <[nIckmenza]> In order to use X at all or to register a channel, you need to have a username. Keep in mind, this is *NOT* registering a nickname. Undernet does not provide nickname registration. Just to keep this clear :o) [L21]
[06:21] <[nIckmenza]> Now, to create a username, go to our website at: http://cservice.undernet.org/live/ [L22]
[06:21] <[nIckmenza]> At about the middle of the page, under the login box, there is a line labeled: "If you do not have an account create one now!" Click on the "Create one" link. [L23]
[06:21] <[nIckmenza]> There are 8 steps on the next page that *MUST* be completed or you will not receive a username. They are as follows... [L24]
[06:21] <[nIckmenza]> *Step 1 - Age Statement* - You must specify whether or not you are above the age of 13 or not. If you are below the age of 13, we cannot ask you personal questions such as your name or email address without parental consent. Thus meaning you cannot register a username, since we cannot verify you. [L25]
[06:21] <[nIckmenza]> *Step 2 - Choose a Username* - Here is where you pick your username. Remember, it has to be unique. There are over 140,000 usernames. Someone probably thought of the one you want before you did :o)Choose it carefully cause you won't be able to change it later! [L26]
[06:22] <[nIckmenza]> *Step 3 - Enter your email address* - This should be your email address, given to you by your internet service provider. If you are unsure what your email address is, contact your provider. [L27]
[06:22] <[nIckmenza]> Free emails, such as hotmail, yahoo, geocities, and other non-paid emails are not accepted for registration. This is due to way to much abuse from users on these providers. [L28]
[06:22] <[nIckmenza]> *Step 4 - Language of choice* - Here you will be able to choose the language you desire to use with X commands replies later. [L29]
[06:22] <[nIckmenza]> *Step 5 - Secret Question/Answer* - This is for password/username retrieval. Makes sure when you make your selection and input in this field, you write down your answer somewhere safe and keep it. You will need this if you forget your password. [L30]
[06:22] <[nIckmenza]> *Step 6 - Security Code* - This is the code who prevent multiple submitions for username registrations.Enter the code you see in the above picture into the below input box (upper/lower case doesn't matter). [L31]
[06:22] <[nIckmenza]> *Step 7 - READ THIS INFO: Individuals are granted the use of a Channel Service username specifically to gain access to channel services. While you need not use channel services to have a username, be aware that attempts to register multiple usernames to the same person will result in a suspension of all the offending names. Don't jeopardize your access to channel services by trying to register multiple usernames on our system. [L32]
[06:23] <[nIckmenza]> Finally, Step 8, Click on submit. After you do so, a link will be emailed to you. Make sure you have cookies enabled in your web browser, then click on the link provided in email or simple copy/paste the link into your browser and visit it. [L33]
[06:23] <[nIckmenza]> This will take you to a webpage that will give you your password. PLEASE write it down somewhere safe, and do not lose it. It can be quite difficult to retreive your password if you lose it. [L34]
[06:23] <[nIckmenza]> This is the basics of username registration. If you have any questions regarding anything specific, ask your tutor, or join #usernames and ask one of our many qualified helpers. [L35]
[06:23] <[nIckmenza]> We will now pause briefly to allow you to catch-up and to ask any questions to your tutor that you need. [ph] [L36]
[06:23] <[nIckmenza]> Next we`ll have a look on channel registration system and the maintainance of channels registered with X. [L37]
[06:24] <[nIckmenza]> Active unregistered channels are owned by the groups that use them, and usually there a consensus about who are the founders, and therefore owners, of the channels. [L38]
[06:24] <[nIckmenza]> Many applications for channel services are submitted by folks who either have no existing relationship with the channel, or are doing so without the knowledge or support of the channel membership. [L39]
[06:24] <[nIckmenza]> They are termed "takeover applications". Any such applications are rejected and the applicant placed on a probation if he tries it repeatedly. [L40]
[06:24] <[nIckmenza]> Also to prevent abusing of our registration system: [L41]
[06:24] <[nIckmenza]> * A new username will be prevented from registering a channel for 10 days after its creation. [L42]
[06:24] <[nIckmenza]> * A new username will be prevented from supporting any channels for 5 days after its creation. [L43]
[06:25] <[nIckmenza]> * A user won't be able to support more than 2 channels at any given time. [L44]
[06:25] <[nIckmenza]> <Applicant>: All I need to get my channel registered is 10 usernames? [L45]
[06:25] <[nIckmenza]> The requirement for registration support on the application is 10 people, not 10 usernames. Admittedly, usernames are the only way we can verify that the 10 supporters are real, and that they actually support the applicant as manager. [L46]
[06:25] <[nIckmenza]> That is why we require 10 usernames for supporters, generally only one e-mail address is allowed per person with an ISP account. [L47]
[06:25] <[nIckmenza]> Supporters need to be people who frequent your channel and have helped to establish it as a viable channel entity deserving of registration services. [L48]
[06:25] <[nIckmenza]> A channel is registered only after its application has been accepted by CService, not after the application has been successfully submitted. [L49]
[06:26] <[nIckmenza]> It takes 10-12 days for your application to be reviewed, verified, checked, twisted, turned; a length of time called the posting period. [L50]
[06:26] <[nIckmenza]> Having posted an application does indicate a claim of ownership, but the claim must be validated, and this takes time. [L51]
[06:26] <[nIckmenza]> We will now take a brief pause in order for you ask your tutor any questions. [ph] [L52]
[06:26] <[nIckmenza]> <Applicant>: My channel is in incoming. What does incoming mean?? [L53]
[06:26] <[nIckmenza]> Incoming is the time immediately after your application is posted on the web site. All channels are in incoming for 72 hrs, or when all supporters have voted on the application. [L54]
[06:27] <[nIckmenza]> <Applicant>: My channel is currently in Pending Traffic Check. Explain this please. [L55]
[06:27] <[nIckmenza]> Traffic check is the step in registration process where we check the traffic of your supporters and users in your channel. [L56]
[06:27] <[nIckmenza]> <Applicant>: My channel application is now Pending Notification. Explain "Pending Notification" please. [L57]
[06:27] <[nIckmenza]> This means the application has fulfilled the initial traffic requirements. You will receive notices in your channel that your application is pending and everyone will be able to object via web to the application for 3 days (72 hours). [L58]
[06:27] <[nIckmenza]> The objections must have valid reasons or will NOT be taken into consideration. [L59]
[06:27] <[nIckmenza]> There are also many reasons for what your channel can get rejected anytime during this period is posted on web.It can be cause of multiple supporters of same person used in the application or just because one or more of your supporters got fraud or suspended during the application process. [L60]
[06:28] <[nIckmenza]> <Applicant>: My channels status shows it is waiting for review. What does that mean? [L61]
[06:28] <[nIckmenza]> Ready for Review refers is the final step in the process and your channel will be reviewed in the next 2-3 days.This doesn't mean will be accepted.The decision could be also rejected. [L62]
[06:28] <[nIckmenza]> <Applicant>: I'll use this username from this guy in another channel, he'll never know I did. [L63]
[06:28] <[nIckmenza]> Actually he will. All usernames used on the application are sent a notice when they login on the web or to X on IRC, giving them the opportunity to call your bluff. [L64]
[06:28] <[nIckmenza]> If someone replies to a notice of support saying "I never gave my consent" or "I don't know this guy" or "get me off your mailing list", then you've blown it. [L65]
[06:28] <[nIckmenza]> Your application will be rejected, your username and channel will be placed on NOREG list for 3 days and you won't be able to apply for the channel until then.Make sure that the usernames that you use are people you know (and trust not to back stab you) and are active in your channel. [L66]
[06:29] <[nIckmenza]> <Applicant>: I just opened my channel and I need X to get it off the ground. [L67]
[06:29] <[nIckmenza]> A simple quote from our registration web page, authored by a most clooful admin, is appropriate here: [L68]
[06:29] <[nIckmenza]> "Channel registration is not meant as a means to start a new channel.It is meant for previously established channels to have an opportunity to have some stability.If you are first starting a new channel, then just start using your channel and give it time to see if a reasonable user base develops to justify registration." [L69]
[06:29] <[nIckmenza]> We'll know if you don't have the required traffic for registration and you'll waste 6-8 days in the posting period finding out that we know.Once your channel is rockin', then registration should be fairly easy. If it doesn't yet rock, then be patient until it does :) [L70]
[06:29] <[nIckmenza]> Let's pause here so that you may ask questions of your Tutors.. ask now while your questions are fresh. [ph] [L71]
[06:36] <[nIckmenza]> Let's look at some of what you need to do to apply to register at our website: http://cservice.undernet.org/live/ . First you need to login, Enter your username and password in the box provided at the site. Then click on the link "Register a Channel" on the left. [L72]
[06:36] <[nIckmenza]> Read the Acceptable Use Policy or AUP carefully. It will give you vital information on Channel Registration. If you agree to bide by the AUP click on "I ACCEPT THE ABOVE". If you do not agree or your channel is in violation of the AUP, Then you can not register your channel. [L73]
[06:36] <[nIckmenza]> As a channel manager you are responsible for the channel and seeing that your channel users and ops follow all Channel Service guidelines, so PLEASE READ IT BEFORE YOU APPLY [L74]
[06:37] <[nIckmenza]> The automated site walks you through each step of the process.. so it pays to be prepared. Realize that Cservice gets 150 applications a day.. over 1000 a week! Help yourself and us by taking the time to follow the steps. [L75]
[06:37] <[nIckmenza]> Have the following information ready *before* you try to apply: 1) Channel info: #channel-name, description.. 2) Manager information: That your personal information 3) Supporter info: 10 Usernames [L76]
[06:37] <[nIckmenza]> The channel name must be not currently registered or on probation due to past abuse and it must begin with alpha-numeric or ASCII (enhanced) characters only. Also, the name *must* describe the channel in some way (eg: #!!!:P is unacceptable). [L77]
[06:37] <[nIckmenza]> The description refers to why users join.. eg: #CarTalk - autorepair. While Cservice does not censor channel content, NO channels are permitted for illegal activities, such as warez trading or child pornography (more on this later). [L78]
[06:37] <[nIckmenza]> The manager's information is important so we may contact you if needed. Please make sure that the information on your username is correct, it will be kept confidential [L79]
[06:37] <[nIckmenza]> The 10 supporters you enter will be notified from X next time they login. Note that they are supporters, NOT necessarily users you plan to make Ops. Once the channel is registered, the manager is the only access that is in X .. you then add those people you choose at the appropriate levels [L80]
[06:38] <[nIckmenza]> Don't even think of trying to register *more* than one channel - if you try, you will lose BOTH, pronto! Cservice screens applications for many issues: Known abusers, Prohibited activities, Bogus supporters, Multiple registrations and much more. (Trust me, these folks are tenacious.. so, help by supporting the rules). [L81]
[06:38] <[nIckmenza]> With that in mind, realize that when you register a channel, you agree to take care of that privilege by preventing abuse and understanding the rules. Let's move on to see how to keep your channel from being purged, now that you have worked hard to get it this far. [L82]
[06:38] <[nIckmenza]> There are two main ways you can lose the services of X in your channel: Abandonment (or apparent absence) and Abuse. Since this can happen as often out of not knowing as out of malice, it's crucial that you have the facts. Getting X purged from your channel is.. a very bad thang ®. [L83]
[06:38] <[nIckmenza]> A channel manager has a large responsibility that takes time and commitment. You agree to take care of what happens, *even when you are off-line*. Start by preventing a purge for your absence or for low traffic. [L84]
[06:38] <[nIckmenza]> Your 500 level access is the key. You need to login to *that* access regularly, with no absence longer than 21 days. CService gets a list of all managers that have failed to login like that. They will look at the channel and decide whether to purge the channel or seek out a new manager. The decision is theirs and is final. [L85]
[06:38] <[nIckmenza]> A registered channel is up for grabs if the manager is missing for 21 days. [L86]
[06:39] <[nIckmenza]> There any number of reasons why a manager may be missing. We do require that a manager authenticate his user account at least every 21 days as a bookmark for review, usually channels are not purged and made available for reapplication so quickly. [L87]
[06:39] <[nIckmenza]> We try to establish if the manager is indeed present but can't authenticate due to a forgotten password.If the manager is truly gone but the channel has a lot of traffic, we try to mediate and establish who the consensus new manager should be and let the registration remain. [L88]
[06:39] <[nIckmenza]> Channels purged for missing manager usually also have no traffic anymore and are indeed open for reapplication. Remember that the channel still belongs to the community that resides there, and their consensus will be required in choosing a new manager. [L89]
[06:39] <[nIckmenza]> <Channel Manager>: I'm changing ISPs and I'll have a new e-mail, no need to contact CService about it. [L90]
[06:39] <[nIckmenza]> If you are going to change ISPs, use the e-mail change form available at http://cservice.undernet.org/ followed by clicking on "Web Interface". You must be able to login to your username to change the e-mail address. [L91]
[06:39] <[nIckmenza]> Our only way of verifying who is really the manager of a channel is by their "e-mail of record", the e-mail that was used on the application for your username. [L92]
[06:40] <[nIckmenza]> If you forgot to change email before you change the ISP simply go to http://cservice.undernet.org/docs where you will find the forms to change your email on record via email to X@undernet.org. [L93]
[06:40] <[nIckmenza]> Select the form for your language and copy/paste into your new email address you want for the username,fill the form with info about your username and send it to the email address we specified before. [L94]
[06:40] <[nIckmenza]> PLEASE use this form ONLY if you can't access your old email we have on record with your username anymore. [L95]
[06:40] <[nIckmenza]> Also incomplete forms with missing informations will not be proccessed so you better remember something about your username info or there will be impossible for us to verify it is really you who owns the username. [L96]
[06:40] <[nIckmenza]> Any official contact with the manager by CService is done with this e-mail address. That is why it is paramount that CService have a current e-mail on record for every channel manager. [L97]
[06:40] <[nIckmenza]> Any channel manager or user with a 500 level access must update a new e-mail of record with CService to maintain your channel ownership.Do this *before* you change ISPs, so we can see your form request from the current e-mail of record and know it is really you. [L98]
[06:41] <[nIckmenza]> <Channel Manager>: I'm there everyday; how can someone say I'm a missing manager? [L99]
[06:41] <[nIckmenza]> The usual circumstance here is ignorance of our system. There is only one 500 account and it is awarded to the manager when his application is accepted. Usually a manager will add a 499 account with a second username, so he can still login. [L100]
[06:41] <[nIckmenza]> What the manager neglects to do is tell CService they lost their e-mail account or password for the 500 access. If you don't authenticate a 500 account, we have no way of knowing whether you are really there. [L101]
[06:41] <[nIckmenza]> This is a simple process and can be fixed at http://cservice.undernet.org/ followed by clicking on "Web Interface". There you will see the "Forgotten Password" link. [L102]
[06:41] <[nIckmenza]> We will now take a brief pause in order for you ask your tutor any questions. [ph] [L103]
[06:43] <[nIckmenza]> The userlist is another key to channel activity. How often do users join and get op'd *without* logging in? The result is that those listed with access to X appear as away longer than they really are. Beware: channels with few active listed users as well as an aging 500 access may be purged. [L104]
[06:43] <[nIckmenza]> Prevent your channel from appearing as inactive, low traffic or idle by *always* logging into X with passwords! And have your Ops do the same. [L105]
[06:43] <[nIckmenza]> Channels also get purged for abuse by the Ops and users: Abuse of.. 1) X.. 2) Users.. 3) Other channels.. and 4) Prohibitions against illegal activities. Since the manager is ultimately responsible, be sure you know what Undernet considers abuse so that you can recognize and control trouble before it puts your channel at risk. [L106]
[06:43] <[nIckmenza]> Undernet has a concise policy towards abuse: *zero tolerance* . The Server Admins and Irc Ops collaborate to detect and remove clones, flooders and others who harass users. In fact, one of the channels where you can find help on abuse is #zt.. meaning zero tolerance. [L107]
[06:44] <[nIckmenza]> 1) Abuse of X: While kicking or de'opping X can't usually be done, any efforts to do so waste resources and trigger an immediate response from CService. Often it is a bot or script, so insist that *all* such bots disable net hack protection so they don't interfere with X. [L108]
[06:44] <[nIckmenza]> 2) Abuse of Users: Many of you have probably experienced floods or denial of service attacks. We will cover ways to protect yourself in another session. Any channels harboring or condoning such attacks are at immediate risk and, once purged, may lose the privilege of any re-registration. [L109]
[06:44] <[nIckmenza]> Mass messages or mass inviting is also abuse. Aside from being annoying and rude, they are a terrible waste of bandwidth and a drain on resources. Alert your users and report any such incidents to #cservice. [L110]
[06:44] <[nIckmenza]> <Channel Manager>: One of my high-level ops was spamming invites to our channel, but I wasn't online so it's not my fault. [L111]
[06:44] <[nIckmenza]> But you will get blamed. You are responsible for anything that is done by ops in your channel. [L112]
[06:44] <[nIckmenza]> It's important that you realize that the ops you chose will reflect directly on you and your channel and must behave on the net according to the established do's and don't's. [L113]
[06:45] <[nIckmenza]> A user spamming invites, flooding users or channels, taking over channels, while authed in a registered channel makes that channel, and you, responsible. [L114]
[06:45] <[nIckmenza]> 3) Abuse of Other Channels: Attacks or takeover attempts on other channels, whether registered or not, are grounds to purge X. Note: "they started it" is *not* an acceptable reason to retaliate. Report any incidents, instead of engaging in abuse yourself. [L115]
[06:45] <[nIckmenza]> 4) Prohibited Activities: Illegal acts include trading warez or pirated software, software used to damage other systems, stolen services or accounts and involvement with child pornography. Not only will these result in a purge of X but also in appropriate criminal charges. Undernet cooperates with responsible authorities to eliminate these forms of abuse. [L116]
[06:45] <[nIckmenza]> While most channels don't harbor abuse knowingly, it's important that you recognize all we have mentioned. Report incidents by sending a timestamped log with relevant /whois details to -> abuse@undernet.org. [L117]
[06:45] <[nIckmenza]> You also prevent abuse by giving Ops access carefully.. appointing only users you know and trust, and by making sure they know what your channel permits. They represent your channel, especially when you are not on-line. [L118]
[06:45] <[nIckmenza]> Let's pause here so that you may ask questions of your Tutors.. and careful not to flood 'em :o) [ph] [L119]
[06:47] <[nIckmenza]> I'll save our other topics for next time.. when you can join us for OpSchool Part 2: "The Lost World of X". [L120]
[06:47] <[nIckmenza]> This script was made possible with the help of quite a few people. I'd like to thank the originators.. Pucker, MatthewA, D-in-Tx, Manning, Teal, SeKs, Coccyx, and more recently, Mikey-, LordLuke and DaveB, and who ever else that I forgot :o) [L121]
[06:47] <[nIckmenza]> I'd also like to thank all the people who volunteer their time to help out presenting this class... without you folks, it just wouldn't be possible to do this! Thanks! [L122]
[06:47] <[nIckmenza]> Let's not forget the past leader of OpSchool Team - Isaiah (CService Admin)...Rest in peace dear friend... [L123]
[06:47] <[nIckmenza]> On a personal note... [L124]
[06:48] <[nIckmenza]> I've had fun teaching this class, and I hope you learned something during this session. [L125]
[06:48] <[nIckmenza]> This concludes our session, thank you for taking the time to attend. [L126]
[06:48] <[nIckmenza]> We will now open the channel up for general questions. (Rev.nIckmenza 1/4/2005) [END] [L127]
Session Close: Sat Apr 15 06:48:58 2006