I have not been a CompuServe subscriber for years. But I do remember how things worked. It is my _assumption_ that the Usenet gateway operates by importing all Usenet news into the CompuServe system, at which point users can access it. CompuServe is not location-dependant. The network operates exactly the same regardless of calling location (indeed, the system doesn't even know where you're calling from I believe). It is a worldwide CompuServe Network that people use to access it. This network just allows dialups and then gets the users connected to the CompuServe computers. The main computers handle all traffic. They don't are location-independant, making it impossible to block access based on location. -- John Goerzen, programmer and owner | Merry Christmas! | Communications Centre, Goessel, KS +-------------------------------------+ Main e-mail: jgoerzen@complete.org | Other e-mail: goerzenj@complete.org | On Sun, 31 Dec 1995 Steve14571@aol.com wrote:

In a message dated 95-12-30 21:34:12 EST, accessnt@ozemail.com.au (Mark Neely) wrote:

I assume that C$ is only filtering the newsfeed as it hits German shores? Please tell me they aren't denying access to these "banned" newsgroups for all users worldwide!

This is exactly what they are doing, Mr. Neely. I am not familiar with CompuServe, as I have never used it. However, based on my understanding of how Usenet operates, it would be possible to write software and incorporate it into CompuServe software that would block German readers from the "obscene" newsgroups. CompuServe would rather score points with the mostly ignorant general public by saying that they are becoming more "family-oriented."

I get my access through America Online, and I am afraid that these monolith online services (AOL, Delphi, Prodigy) will follow C$'s lead so they may also say they are "family-oriented."

I will no longer send mail to addresses that end with "compuserve.com." If AOL decides to become family oriented, I will look for other ways to connect to the net.