HOW MUCH INTERNET ACCESS CAN/SHOULD BE OFFERED BY FREENETS?

This was a hot topic in a number of discussion groups.  The provision
of ftp/telnet services by Freenets has been trialed and generally
found to be problematic and basically bad news.

For reasons of "adult" or "questionable" content, the groups were
divided about whether full UseNet News services ought to be provided,
as well.  Healthy debate took place, without reaching a resolution.

ARE THERE ANY PLANS TO INCREASE THE INTERNET ACCESS THROUGH THE NCF?

     The NCF has just recently become a member of ONET (the provider
for internet gateways) and is in the process of determining the costs
for access.  It is possible that the NCF may be able to provide full
internet access with anonymous FTP.  This will be determined based on
the costs for the internet gateway from ONET.

CAN YOU HAVE A FREENET CONNECTION WITHOUT AN INTERNET GATEWAY?

     It is possible to start a Freenet without an internet connection,
but there should be a move towards establishing the system as part of
the larger community.  The need for access to the internet is really
determined by what the needs of your users are.  One sure way that a
Freenet could fail is if the organizers do not ensure that the system
meets or exceeds the expectations and needs of the users.