There are certain SuffolkWeb account privileges that will require some changes if you use a different Internet Service Provider (ISP):

1. In order to use the Virtual Reference Collection you have two options:
   1. If your library's name is proceeded with a two letter code on the Suffolk County Public Libraries page, then you can use the Virtual Reference Collection link on your library's homepage or go directly to http://palsvrc.suffolk.lib.ny.us to access the VRC. For authentication purposes you will be requested to enter you library barcode and PIN.

   OR
   2. If your library does not have a two letter code, or if you prefer to use your SuffolkWeb username and password, you need to follow the instructions at http://www.suffolk.lib.ny.us/faqs/vrc to be authenticated as a SuffolkWeb user.

2. In order to change your SuffolkWeb password while connected to a different ISP, you need to follow the instructions in item 2 above. You can then change your SuffolkWeb password at http://vrcgate.suffolk.lib.ny.us:88/.

3. You may continue to send and receive your SuffolkWeb mail no matter what ISP you use. There are three methods to access your SuffolkWeb mail:

1. Telnet into SuffolkNet to use the text-only Pine mail program. See FAQ54, "How do I get to SuffolkNet and the text-only Pine mail program" for further information. Note that not all ISPs permit telnet sessions.

2. Use the SuffolkWeb webmail program at http://www.suffolk.lib.ny.us/twig. Note that this program does not have an addressbook feature nor does it make copies of any sent mail.

3. Popmail programs, such as Outlook Express or Netscape Communicator, can be used from a different ISP but require two important changes:
   1. The outgoing (SMTP) mail server needs to be changed to the SMTP server used by your ISP. Your mail will come from your SuffolkWeb account, but your ISP will do the actual delivery. Check the mail account properties from your ISP to determine the correct SMTP server address.

   2. The dial-up connection should be changed from SuffolkWeb to your ISP's connection.

      see FAQ53, Confirming your SuffolkWeb Outlook Express Mail Account Properties for a review of Outlook Express.

      see FAQ46, "What is the mail setup for Netscape" for a review of Netscape.

One service that cannot be used from a different ISP is our news host. Because of the agreement with our Internet provider, the SuffolkWeb news server cannot be accessed from a different ISP. You must be dialed into Suffolk Web in order to access the newsgroups. Many ISPs provide their own news host service, check with your provider.