Log in ....Tribune

Monday, November 3, 2003
Downloads

Convert your PC into mail server
Raman Mohan

WHENEVER we send e-mail, the message is routed through ISP’s SMTP server or a similar server of a Website depending upon the kind of e-mail service you use. This means the message first queues up in the server and sent to the recipient only when its turn comes. This may involve some delay and privacy may be compromised. The message can be accessed and seen by anybody having access to the server. Hackers too can find it easily. This fortnight we feature a freeware that converts own PC into a mail server and sends the mail directly from the PC to the recipient’s mailbox without going through the ISP’s SMTP. Before download, be warned that this is a large program (13.8 MB). So those with slow connection should use download manager like GetRight that may aid in downloading by parts over a few days. Despite slight difficulty in downloading, the program is worth its weight in gold.

Postcast Server

This is a free server program that enables to send messages directly from the computer. This program is used for sending newsletters, distributing messages to different mailing lists, sending notifications to customers, as well as for sending individual messages. You can use it instead of the SMTP server of the Internet Service Provider (ISP). Postcast Server supports all e-mail programs. The program you already use for sending and receiving messages can be connected to the server in a very easy way - by altering just one parameter. Having done so, you can send messages in a usual manner. Once the program has been set, it performs all tasks in the background. You can set the program to send messages on a daily basis, every hour, immediately after downloading them, or during some other time interval. If necessary, the program will automatically call your ISP and terminate the connection after completing its task. You can connect to it via LAN, Internet or directly from the computer where it has been installed. The program can be configured to send messages for all users within LAN. If necessary, it is possible to limit access to the program using several security options. It has been optimised for very fast message delivery and gets the most out of the Internet connection. While sending messages, the program establishes dozens of connections at the same time. Thus, it reaches maximum speeds and on an average delivers about 3,500 messages per hour with an ordinary modem Internet connection and some 13,000 with an ISDN connection. The sending speed increases with the capacity of your Internet connection. You can find this program at www.postcastserver.com