Month: March 2019

IOS Certificate Error (SSL)

DCSI wish to advise that some hosted domains have recently been affected by an incompatibility on IOS devices.

We appreciate your patience as we continue working on this to ensure the incompatibility of Apple/IOS devices is resolved.

For those who would like to continue using their email without SSL while this issue is in effect, you will need to disable SSL.

Disable SSL for incoming

  1. In Settings, go to Passwords and Accounts
  2. Click on the affected email address
  3. On the next screen you will need to click the affected email address again
  4. Go to Advanced
  5. Turn off SSL for incoming
  6. Use the arrow to go back to the previous screen
  7. Click done.

Disable SSL for outgoing

  1. In Settings, go to Passwords and Accounts
  2. Click on the affected email address
  3. On the next screen, you will need to click the affected email address again
  4. Click on SMTP server
  5. Click on the Primary server
  6. Turn off SSL
  7. Change port to 25
  8. Some devices may fail to verify after this change is made. If this happens, you will need to remove the outgoing username and password.

Email Settings

Email settings

These are the general settings you’ll need to set up your DCSI email address in your email program. For specific guides for popular programs, see below.

 

DCSI Email settings

Email address

username@dcsi.net.au

Email login name

Your full email address
(username@dcsi.net.au)

Incoming mail server (IMAP or POP3)

incoming.dcsi.net.au

Outgoing mail server (SMTP)

outgoing.dcsi.net.au

Webmail

webmail.dcsi.net.au

Roaming email

If you configure your email client to login with your username and roaming password, you’ll be able to send email using our mail server whether you’re at home on your own WiFi, or on the go.

First, contact DCSI on 1300 66 55 75 and request a roaming email password.

Then, use the following settings to configure your email client

Outgoing mail server (SMTP)

outgoing.dcsi.net.au

Outgoing server port

587

Outgoing server requires authentication

On

SMTP username

Your full email address
(username@dcsi.net.au)

Authentication type

Password

 

Hosted domain email

Incoming mail server (IMAP or POP3)

mail.yourdomain.com

Incoming server port

110 for POP, 143 for IMAP

Outgoing mail server (SMTP)

mail.yourdomain.com

Outgoing server port

587 with TLS encryption

Outgoing server requires authentication

On

Username

Your full email address
(username@yourdomain.com)

Authentication type

Password

Webmail

Webmail.yourdomain.com

 

If you don’t have a TLS option for your outgoing server, please try port 465 with SSL. Most modern mail programs will have this available so it may be worthwhile updating if yours does not have it.

TLS is the preferred method for your email client to connect to our mail server. It will not be possible to choose no encryption for outgoing as our mail server requires it.

If you get a certificate warning, allow your email program to continue. This is just a conflict as your domain is not the same as the shared security certificate for *.dcsi.net.au. If this security warning keeps displaying every time your email program is opened, please let us know and we’ll assist you further.

Account Payment Options

How to pay

Customer Portal

Our customer portal makes it simple for you to pay online, along with giving you access to many other service features! This means quick, no fuss payments at a time that suits you, day or night. Save or update your card, make a one off-payment or review your invoice history – it’s all so easy with the portal.

A step-by-step user guide to payments via the portal can be found here.

Need more options?

Note: All charges invoiced by us are payable within 7 days, unless we agree otherwise. Businesses that require extended terms need to make an application to our credit department.

Credit card

You can set up a credit card on your account for automatic payment each month, or you can use a credit card to make a once-off payment.

You can attach a credit card or make a payment online via the customer portal, or by contacting us on 1300 66 55 75.

Direct debit

With your authorisation, we can automatically take payment directly from a nominated bank account each month. To set up this payment method, please download and complete this form and return it to us via post or email (scan and attach).

BPAY

You can pay us via internet or phone banking, by sending us funds from your account via BPAY.
Please allow up to 3 business days for the payment to be processed.

Biller code: 223669
Reference: (your customer number – see invoice)

Cash or EFTPOS

Cash and EFTPOS payments are available in person during business hours at our offices at 1A, 155 Queen St, Warragul VIC 3820.

Speed Test Guide

Why run speed tests?

A speed test is a useful diagnostic tool to identify if there is a problem with the service, and to measure the severity of impact.

How do I run a speed test?

There are some steps you should take first to ensure the test is accurate.

Step 1: Turn off all other internet use. You may receive a falsely low result if your service is being used simultaneously by other applications. You want a true measurement of the speed the service is achieving, not what’s left after everything else uses it. Alert other family members not to use the internet for the 60 seconds or so it takes to run the test. If possible, turn off other devices or disconnect them from the connection

Step 2: If possible, do the speed test over an ethernet cable. This would typically mean using a device like a desktop or laptop computer; even some Smart TVs have the capability. What you want to measure is the speed of the service that’s being delivered to your premises. If that’s fine, the next step would be to test over WiFi for comparison. The resolution for your speed problem is going to be different if it’s a WiFi issue versus a slow connection, so you’ll need to know what you are dealing with to get to the correct resolution.

But then it’s as simple as visiting speed.dcsi.net.au and clicking the big GO button.

What do my results mean?

Download and upload measure how quickly information is transmitted to and from you. The higher the number, the faster the connection. Your maximum speed will be limited by things like your plan and your infrastructure, so there’s no one right answer on what a “good” or “bad” speed may be. You’ll need to refer to your plan’s theoretical maximum speeds, which usually appears on your invoice. If you need help with this, just ask.

Ping measures your connection’s reaction time – how quickly it receives a response. This is where you want to see a low number – the lower, the better. Jitter is a measurement of variability in ping times.

What can cause slow speeds?

Many things. There are so many individual systems and devices involved in the delivery of your internet connection. Your speed may be slow due to a fault in the infrastructure connected to your house, or a failing router. Perhaps the connection is performing at its best, but the limits of your plan are too restrictive for your household. These are just some of the possibilities. We use speed tests results as one element in troubleshooting to assist us in accurately pinpointing the source of your slow speeds.

What do I do with the results?

You can use it for your own peace of mind, to establish that your connection is performing as it should. Sometimes it’s a fast answer to the question “Is it this site that’s slow, or is it my connection?”.

If you report an issue with your service, DCSI may ask you to run speed tests so we can gather information to establish the impact on your service. This information can be very important particularly if there is an issue that needs to be logged with a wholesale provider, or to determine if technicians are needed to go onsite.

How often should I run speed tests?

Speed tests are quick, simple and free, and can be done at any time. If you are a DCSI customer, your speed test history is automatically logged and can be reviewed if any problems arise. Having a history of tests that show the performance of the connection over time can be a really useful tool. You should run a speed test as often as you want to, even when you aren’t experiencing problems.

Virus and Malware Guide

What are computer viruses?

Viruses are malicious computer programs designed to spread themselves from computer to computer, with the potential to cause damage, and harmful or unexpected outcomes.

What is malware?

Malware is a contraction of “malicious software”.  Broadly speaking, malware can be any kind of malicious code including adware, spyware, keyloggers, trojans, worms and viruses.
Adware – software that may install on your machine without your knowledge and display ads to you, generating income for the developer.
Spyware – obtains your personal data by stealth and sends it to unauthorised people. Can be used maliciously to control or even damage your computer.
Keyloggers – record every keystroke you make and transmit to the person controlling it. This can allow a third party to obtain your passwords and other sensitive information.
Trojans – malicious software that is disguised as legitimate software.
Worms – self-replicating code that spreads itself from computer to computer
Viruses – the distinction between worms and viruses can be quite subtle: a virus will usually need someone to run the associated file or program so it can take effect, but a worm can spread itself across networks automatically.

Who is vulnerable to viruses and malware?

People usually understand that Windows computers and devices are vulnerable and before you connect to the internet, you should have anti-virus protection installed. There’s a common misconception that Apple/Mac devices are safe but don’t be too complacent – Mac malware does exist, and it is prudent to protect your Mac with security software.

I’ve been asked to run a scan of my computer. How?

This will depend on the anti-virus or anti-malware package you’re using. For most, it should be a matter of opening the program and selecting scan. If you are having trouble with this, you can often find a guide to using common programs on YouTube. If you suspect that your device is infected and you are unsure how to fix it, you may wish to consult an IT professional for assistance.

What should I use to protect my PC, Mac or other device?

Some commonly used programs are:
Malware Bytes
Microsoft Security Essentials
Avast!
Kaspersky

Tech blogs and publications are constantly testing and reviewing security software and can offer some informed insight into the best options. Some current articles that might be useful are linked below.

https://www.techradar.com/au/best/best-antivirus

https://au.pcmag.com/antivirus/8949/the-best-antivirus-protection

https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-antivirus,review-2588.html

https://www.techadvisor.co.uk/test-centre/security/best-antivirus-3676938/

FAQ: Acceler8ed Broadband

What is Acceler8ed Wireless?

Acceler8ed Wireless was the previous name of Acceler8ed Broadband. Same great broadband, delivered wirelessly to you.

Ok, so what is Acceler8ed Broadband?

Acceler8ed Broadband is a wireless internet solution exclusive to DCSI.

Acceler8ed Broadband is the latest evolution in Fixed Wireless technology, delivering unparalleled speed and reliability. Drawing on more than a decade of experience in delivering Fixed Wireless services across Gippsland, DCSI had the right background to understand that an Acceler8ed Broadband Network would meet the current and future internet needs of households and businesses, and the skills to make it happen.

What are the advantages of Acceler8ed Broadband?

Acceler8ed Broadband is fast and reliable.

Households use their connections in entirely different ways now compared to 20, 10, even 5 years ago. The rise of Netflix, the ubiquity of portable internet-enabled devices, the move to VoIP and away from copper landline services… these are all part of the ever-changing internet landscape.

Acceler8ed Broadband is based on technology developed specifically to support modern internet use and habits, and as such the key attributes are the speed and stability of the service. The internet is no longer a hobby that we indulge in during downtime – it’s part of the fabric of our everyday lives, and as such we need connections we can rely upon, and the speeds to handle anything and everything we want to do with the connections.

How does Acceler8ed Broadband differ from other solutions?

Acceler8ed Broadband is today’s technology, built and supported by a local team.

Acceler8ed Broadband is purpose built. Legacy issues that come from stacking new uses onto infrastructure that was never designed to handle it are eliminated with Accler8ed Broadband, which is an entirely new evolution in technology, new infrastructure and supported by all-new systems.

The reliability of Accler8ed Broadband is further enhanced by a dedicated support team. The emphasis is on solutions that work for the long-term, and with their in-depth knowledge of the network they built, our local support technicians have every advantage over other networks that are serviced by out-of-area subcontractors.

Would Acceler8ed Broadband be right for my household? What sort of households does it suit?

Acceler8ed Broadband has a plan to suit all households.

Acceler8ed Broadband is suitable for a wide range of households, from empty nesters to young professionals, from singles to large families, and we have a range of plans to meet the needs of all. Whether you’re just checking your email and the weather, or using VoIP to phone family and friends across the world, or leading your gaming guild to victory, or streaming all your household’s entertainment, or making sure the kids can get their homework done, there’s an Acceler8ed plan that’s right for you.

The beauty of Acceler8ed Broadband is that the reliability makes it the simple, straight-forward choice for internet novices, while the connection has the oomph to cope with those who really put their connection through its paces.

If I’m in an nbntm or privately owned fibre area, can I choose Acceler8ed Broadband?

Households in Acceler8ed Broadband-enabled areas have the freedom to choose.

You may think you are limited in your choice of providers, but as a stand-alone network our Acceler8ed Broadband can be available to premises that otherwise would be restricted in their internet options. Acceler8ed Broadband may be the alternative you’ve been hoping for.

Will I be on a contract with Acceler8ed Broadband?

You are not locked in to a contract with any DCSI service.

One of our values is to make sure the services we deliver give people the flexibility they need, as we understand that life changes aren’t always planned. With DCSI, you are not under contract. This means when your circumstances change, you can change your plan or discontinue your service without penalty or other nasty surprises.

What is required to install Acceler8ed Broadband?

Site assessment, activation and installation is all done for you.

Acceler8ed Broadband services are available within an ever-expanding area in West Gippsland, with services currently available in Yarragon, Warragul, Drouin, Pakenham, Officer, Leongatha and surrounding areas.

Upon application, your address is assessed by technicians to ensure it is within the serviceable area of a tower. A site visit is conducted to ensure there are no barriers to installation of the service and to test the strength of signal at the site, and then the service is fully installed by our technicians.

The service is connected to your property via an unobtrusive antenna fitted to the outside of the property and a simple internal wall port.

What plans are available on Acceler8ed Broadband?

You can choose from any of the current plans on our site.

DCSI’s range of Acceler8ed Broadband plans are designed to accommodate all uses, from the very basic through to the data-intense. Plans start from as little as $50 a month for 100GB. What’s more, with Acceler8ed Broadband we don’t limit your speeds and charge you more to go faster. Acceler8ed Broadband is an Open Speed service – this means you could see up to to 50Mbps on any plan.  UPDATE: As of 13 May 2019, Accler8ed Broadband services have received an over-the-air update that lifts the download speed potential to 60Mbps. Read more here.

Want to know more? Check out the full range here.