Subj : Software Issues
To   : All
From : Daryl Stout
Date : Tue Jul 07 2015 11:48 am

I am in a quandry right now, concerning BBS software, and would appreciate
suggestions from the other Sysops on this.

For several weeks now, the telnet server of Virtual Advanced (VADV32) is
crashing without warning, usually when no one is online. If I am out on
errands with my elderly Mom, the telnet side of the BBS is DOWN, and the
FTelnet option from the website is WORTHLESS...even though the website itself
is still up with VADV-PHP.

The main draw of BBS's nowadays is "doorgames", even though I obviously take
an active part in the message bases and file areas. I can't see just having
the website up for messages and file areas only (no bulletins, doorgames,
etc.).

So, my options are as follows...with the LEAST DESIRABLE first:

1) Retire from Sysoping and shut everything down. That's something I do NOT
want to even consider. The BBS is one of VERY FEW hobbies that I can still do.

2) Leave things as they are. The problem is, as noted above, if the telnet
server crashes, while the website is up, the telnet side is down until I
discover it, and reset it.

3) Change software. I had previously run GT Power under dial-up, and my first
telnet/web software was Synchronet, before going to Virtual Advanced
(VADV32). However, these are the pros and cons of those two:

a) GT Power. While I still have the configuration files and menus, I'd have
to reconfigure all the doors. It is now freeware, with telnet capability, but
I had problems with the beta versions, so I abandoned it.

b) Synchronet. While SBBS allows fossil and non-fossil doors, it apparently
does not like multiple configuration files for a doorgame. Yet, some of the
doors require the door data in a separate directory besides the startup
directory, usually in the node directory. I also personally thought the SBBS
website interface was too bland (especially compared to VADV32), and the
flame wars in many of the proprietary Dove-Net echoes turned me off.

I can't have dial-up because of cost...and because of construction crews
slicing the underground cables out here several years ago (even though they
were clearly marked). The line noise was so bad that either a voice call or a
modem/data/fax call couldn't be done.

I know there is a lot of other BBS software out there, and I realize that any
work will be long and tedious, but that's the nature of the beast. However, I
have no clue where to begin...and realize that every Sysop runs the software
that appeals to them. The software though must run on Windows XP
Professional, Service Pack 3, as that's what I have.

I realize that there are some Sysops that have used several different
software packages, and others that have found one, and stuck with it. But,
this is where your feedback comes in.

Obviously, what I'd like for the BBS is access via telnet or FTelnet via the
website, email (mainly for a new user verification code), message areas, file
areas (anonymous FTP would be helpful but not necessary), bulletins, and
doorgames. Internet Relay Chat (IRC) is helpful, but not necessary. Also, my
HTML knowledge is VERY BASIC, as is my programming knowledge. I can write a
batchfile for the BBS, but the programming ENDS at setting the clock on the
microwave oven. <G>

Any help, advice, or suggestions, would be greatly appreciated.

Daryl Stout, WX1DER, Sysop
The Thunderbolt BBS
Little Rock, Arkansas

--- Virtual Advanced Ver 2 for DOS
* Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS (1:19/33)

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