FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ABOUT FILTERING
ABOUT MODEMS
ABOUT eMAILS
ABOUT NATIONWIDE DIALUP
ABOUT FILTERING
Q: How Does the Filtering Work?
A: ClearSail's filtering is Server Based, not computer software; therefore, there is
no need for our customers to continuously update their software. ClearSail
searches the Internet everyday and adds to our website blocking list. Thousands
of websites are located and filtered each day. Our comprehensive filtering solution
includes: (1) the block list of known URL's, (2) blocking of known pornographic
hosting services, (3) the blocking of keywords in the url, and (4) the blocking of
keyword searches. There are MILLIONS of blocked websites as a result of
ClearSail's intense filtering capability. Additionally, newsgroups are blocked
because of the uncontrollable amount of pornography contained within them.
Q: Is filtering "FOOL-PROOF"?
A: Due to the high level of objectionable sites appearing on-line every day, the
answer is no. We believe that about 98% of all objectionable sites have been
located and successfully blocked; however, there will be websites from time to
time missed or are brand new. It's usually a very short period of time before
ClearSail finds and eliminates access to these websites. And in the event a
customer finds a site that they feel should be blocked or unblocked, they may
simply eMailing ClearSail and request a review. We will review and take the
appropriate action with the site within 24 hours when the website meets the
filtering criteria, as set forth in our Filtering Policy.
Q: Does ClearSail block all the sites they review?
A: No, only those fitting our Filtering Policy.
Q: How often is the filtering data base updated?
A: 1 to 2 times daily, M-F.
Q: What if Parents / Administrators want to go to a blocked site?
A: If an authorized user needs to view a blocked site, they can override the filter
using a unique administrative/ parental password (this is an option that is no
charge). ClearSail provides this feature WITHOUT the need to purchase 2
separate accounts. The override is enabled for a specified amount of time (1-240
minutes) and then the bypass reverts back to filtered access. Additionally, an
eMail is sent to the parent / administrator of the account each time the bypass is
activated (this feature can be optionally deleted). ClearSail also has a security
procedure for bypass passwords requests. Unauthorized persons attempting to
obtain a password will be reported to the owner of the account.
Q: What if I don't want a filtering bypass?
A: The filtering bypass password is completely optional, and you may request to
"never" have a password provided.
Q: Do I really need a filtering bypass?
A: This decision to have a bypass is completely up to the customer.
Approximately 75% of our customers obtain a bypass. This way the parent /
administrator has "total control" over the account. Many customers find the need
to bypass and allow their children to view blocked websites, while the parents can
supervise them. Blocked websites containing "chat" and "graphic medical photos"
are just some examples. Additionally, ClearSail blocks websites that contain
gambling, alcoholic beverages, and tobacco products. Adults may want to view a
site on fine wines, cigars, or Las Vegas that would otherwise be blocked.
Q: How does the filtering bypass feature time-out?
A: The bypass time is programmable by the authorized user. If more than an 4 hours
is required, the bypass process simply can be repeated.
Q: How does ClearSail's filtering differ from software I can buy?
A: While software that resides on a computer will be somewhat effective, it cannot
provide the thoroughness of ClearSail's filtering. We believe that software alone
blocks only about 80%, where ClearSail's filtering solution is about 98% effective.
Also, ClearSail's filtering is performed
from our servers, therefore the filtering cannot be removed or uninstalled like
software. And Software that can be purchased requires updating constantly
(almost every day) to give the filtering capability ClearSail provides.
Q: Does the filtering process slow down the access to the Internet?
A: Very slightly, but only by milliseconds - so it is not noticable!.
Q: Can I use any browser with the filtering that I want to use?
A: Yes, any browser that is configurable to run through a proxy. These include
Microsoft Internet Explorer 3 and 4, Netscape Navigator 4, Mosaic, Web Explorer,
and some others.
Q: Can't my proxy settings on my browser simply be turned off to
circumvent ClearSail's filtering?
A: No. All requests for websites must go through the proxy filter settings in order
to download a webpage.
ABOUT MODEMS
Q: Am I going to get busy signals when trying to access ClearSail?
A: ClearSail has an excellent customer to modem ratio. It currently is a 7:1. This
means that for every 7 customers there is 1 modem. The chances that you should
get a busy signal is very rare, and if a busy occurs, it is probably a bad telephone
connection and you should immediately redail. If it is truly busy, more than likely
the system is busy due to a public tragedy, big news event, or super bowl Sunday
when the station advises for everyone to checkout the NFL website. These
occurrences are rare.
Q: What is the minimum modem speed I should use?
A: ClearSail recommends that no modems be used under the speed of 56K. It is
recommended that you consider upgrading to a 56K x2 or v.90 modem. These
modems will perform approximately twice the speed as a 28.8, and with prices
coming down, most major computer stores offer 56K v.90 modems for under
$50.00.
Q: I have purchased a 56K modem, why can I connect at 56,000?
A: Regional Bell Operating Companies are sometimes tariffed and will only allow
(with perfect telephone line conditions) 53K. Tariffs are established by the FCC
and by state Public Utility Commissions. Because analog lines are a little noisy
(static), your modem will automatically slow down to accommodate for noise. It is
normal for 56K modems to connect between 39 - 51K. This is still very good
performance.
Q: Should I get an ISDN or DSL line?
A: When considering an ISDN or DSL line, know the pros and cons. Cost: ISDN through
the telephone company costs an average of $60 / mo., plus a connection fee, and DSL is usually about $45 / mo. Sometimes connection fees are discounted when signing a one year term agreement
(check with your provider). With ISDN, you should get 2 to 3 times faster downloads, and DSL is generally 10 - 20 times faster than dial up.
Q: I have experienced drop-outs when connected, what's the reason?
A: In almost all cases, the telephone connection between your computer and the
services has deteriorated where the modems can no longer communicate. The
modem will then need to reestablish itself. If this problem persists, you will need
to have your telephone company look at the quality of your telephone service.
ABOUT eMAIL
Q: How long does it take for eMail to be delivered?
A: Usually in seconds.
Q: Is my eMail private (safe from being read)?
A: Probably as safe as the US Mail Service. It would be difficult for an eMail to be
delivered to the wrong location. Those that have sensitive information being
transmitted should make sure they are equipped with encryption software.
Although it is always possible for a computer to be hacked or its security
compromised, it is unlikely that someone could intercept an eMail. Customers
who purchase items through a charge-card should make sure that they are on a
secure server for maximum safety.
Q: Can I have multiple eMail addresses?
A: Yes. Your browser can be setup to have multiple users. This way everyone
gets their own eMail, and each person will have a unique password for internal
security. ClearSail will provide each member of your family with their own eMail
address. ClearSail provides Businesses with Internet packages that provide the
needed eMail addresses for employees.
ABOUT NATIONWIDE SERVICE
Q: Can I connect through one of your out-of-town servers?
A: Yes. With your ClearSail account, you may obtain Internet access and eMail
from any one of our access numbers. If you know you are planning a trip to a
particular city serviced by ClearSail, just give us a call to activate.
Q: Can I recommend my friends and family to ClearSail if they're in a
different city?
A: Yes. As long as they're in ClearSail's local dialing area within the cities listed
in our Nationwide directory, we can service them. All local dialing area numbers need to be checked to verify that no long distance charges will apply. And anytime you refer a new
customer to ClearSail, we'll credit your account a referral fee.
|