Telnet allows you to log in remotely to other computers connected to the Internet (but only computers that are set up to be logged in to). Once logged in, you can use applications on that machine as if it were your machine. You telnet to host machines to access databases, computer library card catalogues, weather reports and other information services as well as to play live on-line games such as Multi-user Dungeons (MUDs) or to perform tasks that you don't have a client application for.

When connected to a remote computer via telnet you operate as a terminal on the host machine. You are using your keyboard and monitor; but the processing is all being done on the other computer you are "logged on" to, even if that computer is on the other side of the world. It is all text-only, so accessing information requires you to type a series of written commands. The Telnet address Every telnet site has two addresses - one composed of words that are easier for people to remember: a domain name like: foke.com.au the other a numerical address better suited for computers: an IP address in "dotted quad" format like this: You can telnet to a site using either of the above addresses.

Some telnet addresses also include a number after the name. This is the number of a specific port and means you can only telnet to that particular host through the specified port number. It's important to include that number, otherwise you may not get a connection. How to Telnet First connect to the Internet using your usual connection process. To telnet from a PPP or SLIP account you will need a Telnet application program. If using a PC you can use Telnet for Winsock shareware program that can be found at: ftp://ftp.dstc.edu.au/u2/pub/pc/winsock/trumpet/trmptel.zip To telnet to a remote computer from a PPP or SLIP account simply open your Telnet program and choose Open Connection (or something similar) from the File menu. Then type in the telnet address and click on the OK or Connect button.

Most telnet sites work best (and in some cases, only) with VT1OO emulation so make sure your software is set to VT1OO (this will be in an option dialogue box). Once connected to the telnet site you may be asked for a login and password. If you are already a member of the site, type in your user login name and password. If not you will be prompted with the correct login and password which will be something like: guest You may later be asked to subscribe to the service for a fee which may vary in size. If you are not asked for a login and password it means the service and information offered is free. After that, a blurb about the services offered will appear along with a menu of available options.

When you first telnet to a new site you will most likely wish to view the help file which lists all available commands. To view this type: help If this doesn't work, there is probably a help item in the menu. To exit a telnet session you normally type: exit or log out

What if 1 get stuck? If you cannot type to the screen or something is taking a long time to appear, try hitting the Escape key. This will exit the current function. If this doesn't work and you are completely suspended in cyberspace unable to do anything, then exit the telnet session (by clicking the window closed) and reconnect again. Sometimes you may wish to telnet to your own Internet account from someone else's Internet connection. For example, you may be at a friend's place who is logged in to the Internet on their own account and you wish to check your . Instead of hanging up and dialling your ISP, you can telnet to your ISP's host computer and login with your user name and password.

The address to telnet to will normally be your ISP's domain name. For example, if your is: you would telnet to: fake.com.au and login as: johnd