Imaginet FAQ - User contributions [en]

Start over

2022-03-14T07:35:09Z

Desmond:

'''Resetting your current work to default'''

If you end up making a mistake and wish to start over again simply click on the icon that says '''New/Reset'''.
This will Change everything back to how it was before you started creating your website.
[[File:Reseting-all changes.png|thumb|left]]

Billing

2022-02-01T14:05:16Z

Desmond:

Imaginet allows you to pay for your account monthly via debit order or credit card. Should you wish to pay via EFT, you will need to do so for 6 months in advance.

=Billing dates=
Imaginet conducts only one billing run each month. You will receive your invoice on the 1st day of each month, and the amount due will be deducted from your account at midnight on the 1st working day of each month.

=Debit order and Credit card charges=
Our debits are processed by a company called [http://www.netcash.co.za Netcash]. Your bank statement will therefore show a debit with a reference like '''NETCASH 12345678 IMAGINET'''. If you have any queries about a debit that has been conducted against your account, please feel free to contact us!

=Payment for new accounts=
When you sign up for a new account with Imaginet, you will be asked for your payment information. Your first payment will '''not''' be deducted right away. You will only be billed on the 1st of the following month, but your services will be activated instantly.

=Billing in advance=
Imaginet bills for all service in advance. In other words, on 1 January you will be billed for January's services. This means that when you first apply for services, your first invoice will be for the first two months of service. 
For example, if you apply for a MTN 40GB + 40GB Fixed LTE A package (R199 per month) on 15 December, you will only pay on 1 January. Your 1 January bill will be for R398: R199 for December, and R199 for January. Each subsequent invoice will be for only 1 month in advance. I.e. on 1 February you will only pay R199, for February's service.

=Pro-rata billing=
For the first month of service, some Imaginet services are billed pro-rata, while others are not. Here's how you will be billed for the following packages for the first month of service: 

==Per GB ADSL==
Per GB packages are billed pro-rata for the first month of service, based on the portion of data used. For example, a Soft Cap 10GB package is R100 per month. If you sign up for a Soft Cap 10GB package in January, but you only use 5GB that month, you will only be billed R50 for January. This will be added to your first invoice, which you will receive on 1 February, and which will also include the full monthly fee of R100 for February (see '''Billing in advance''').

==Uncapped ADSL==
Uncapped packages are '''not''' billed pro rata for the first month of service. This means that you will be billed the full monthly fee for the first month of service, even if you signed up after the 1st. For example, an Uncapped 5Mbps + Line package is R390 per month. If you sign up for one on 15 January, you will be billed the full R390 for January. This will be added to your first invoice, which you will receive on 1 February, and which will also include the full monthly fee of R390 for February (see Billing in advance).

==Hosting services==
Hosting packages are billed pro rata for the first month of service, based on the portion of the traffic allowance used. For example, a Micro Hosting package is R25 per month, and allows for 200MB traffic. If you sign up for a Micro Hosting package in January, but you only use 100MB that month, you will only be billed R12.50 for January. This will be added to your first invoice, which you will receive on 1 February, and which will also include the full monthly fee of R25 for February (see Billing in advance) as well as the once-off hosting set-up fee in full.

==Mobile Broadband==
Mobile packages are billed pro rata for the first month of service, based on the portion of data used. For example, a 2GB MTN package is R93 per month. If you sign up for a MTN 2 GB package in January, but you only use 1GB that month, you will only be billed R46.50 for January. This will be added to your first invoice, which you will receive on 1 February, and which will also include the full monthly fee of R93 for February (see Billing in advance) as well as the once-off set-up fee in full.

What are domains, and what will I need?

2022-01-31T10:45:45Z

Desmond:

A domain name is basically an address on the internet. Having a domain and hosting allows you to use the internet to promote your business, yourself or anything else you may choose. You can register/purchase just about any name as long as it is available; meaning someone else hasn't already purchased that name. 

=What can be done with a domain?=
The domain itself is just the street address, it's simply the '''yourname.co.za/.com/.biz''' part. You cannot move your personal or business ideas and advertising (website) onto an empty piece of land; you needing storage space (hosting). You also cannot get mail without a mailbox (email address).

=Do I need hosting?=
If you plan to have an email address or website at your domain, you will need a hosting service. You don't necessarily have to host with Imaginet; you can redirect your domain to another hosting service. Our [https://www.imaginet.co.za/product/hosting/starter-hosting.html Starter hosting options] are very affordable though, and we'd really recommend considering Imaginet if you would like hosting services. We also offer [https://www.imaginet.co.za/product/hosting/starter-hosting.html Business hosting options] as well as [https://www.imaginet.co.za/product/hosting/starter-hosting.html Site Creator hosting options] for clients who would like to use our site creator service to create their websites.

Manage Control Panel users

2022-01-31T10:14:32Z

Desmond:

You are able to set up access to MyDot for other users, allowing them adminstrative control over your account. Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on '''My Account''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). Then click on '''User Management'''. [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
Click '''Add''' to create a new user. 
Enter the new user's details, including the password they will use to log in to MyDot. Their username will be the email address entered. 
Select a user type: 

'''Admin''': A person given "Admin" rights can makes any changes to the account except change or remove the Primary Account Holder's details. This person will thus be able to see all passwords, change passwords, upgrade services, add new services, etc. 

'''Normal''': A person given "Normal" permissions will be able to see all packages and make any changes that do not affect the billing. In other words they can see and change passwords, but cannot increase ADSL account limits, upgrade accounts or add new services. 

'''Billing''': A person given "Billing" permissions will only be able to see and update the financial details. 

'''Custom''': This option allows you to customize the user's permission using the options shown once the custom option has been selected. 
 
If you select '''Custom''', you will need to set the following permissions: '''ADSL''', '''Billing''', '''Email''', and '''Hosting'''. 
Permission levels: 

'''None''': User will not be able to see any packages listed under this section. 

'''Read-Only''': User will be able to see packages and passwords but cannot make any changes. 

'''Half''': User will be able to see all packages under this section but can only make changes that do not affect the billing, i.e. they can change passwords but cannot increase the ADSL package limit or upgrade the service. 

'''Full''': User will be able to see all packages under this section and make any changes, including upgrades and adding new packages.

Access invoices

2022-01-31T10:10:39Z

Desmond:

Change your payment details

2022-01-31T10:09:34Z

Desmond:

Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on '''My Account''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). Then click on '''Financial Details'''. [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
Your payment information will be displayed in a blue square in the top right corner of the screen. To update these details, click '''Edit'''. 
Next to '''Payment Method''' click '''Edit'''. 
Enter the correct details, and click '''Save'''. 
If you're paying via debit order, you will need to enter the '''Branch code''' for your bank. If you're unsure of the code, try one of the generic codes below: 
 
'''ABSA''': 632005 
'''Standard Bank''': 051001 
'''FNB''': 250655 
'''Investec''': 580105 
'''Rand Merchant Bank''': 261251 
'''Nedbank''': 198765 
'''Capitec''': 470010

Setting up forwarding and aliases

2022-01-31T10:06:20Z

Desmond:

Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on '''Email''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
* You will be presented with a list of domains. 
* Locate your email address by scrolling to the correct domain and clicking '''View'''. 
* Scroll to the address you wish to modify, and click '''Edit'''. 
* Next to '''Forwards''' click '''Edit'''. 
* If you wish emails to be delivered to both addresses, place a check next to '''Store Mail'''. If you wish mail to be delivered only to the new address, clear the '''Store Mail''' option. 
* Enter the forwarding address, and click '''Save'''.
* If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Setting up an Auto-Reply

2022-01-31T10:05:32Z

Desmond:

Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on '''Email''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
* You will be presented with a list of domains. 
* Locate your email address by scrolling to the correct domain and clicking '''View'''. 
* Scroll to the address you wish to modify, and click '''Edit'''. 
* Next to '''Autoreply''' click '''Edit'''. 
* Place a check in the box next to '''On'''. You will be able to disable the autoreply easily by clearing this option. This is useful if you often use the same autoreply message. 
* Enter the text of the message, and click '''Save'''.
* If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Changing your email password

2022-01-31T10:03:42Z

Desmond:

Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on '''Email''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
* You will be presented with a list of domains. 
* Locate your email address by scrolling to the correct domain and clicking '''View'''. 
* Scroll to the address you wish to modify, and click '''Edit'''. 
* Next to '''Passwords''', click '''Edit'''. 
* Enter your new password into both fields. Ensure that it's the same both times. Click '''Save'''.

* If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Creating a new email address

2022-01-31T10:01:14Z

Desmond:

Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on '''Email''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
* You will be presented with a list of domains. 
* Click the '''Add''' button at the top right. 
* Select the domain @ which you would like to create a new email address. 
* Enter the username - the part of the address before the @. 
* Click '''Accept'''. 
* You will need to enter your chosen password twice. Ensure that it's the same both times. 
* Click '''Add'''. 
[[file:Newaddress.JPG]] 
And that's it! You have created a new email address. If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Modify your hosting services

2022-01-31T09:11:43Z

Desmond:

Hosting services can be upgraded, downgraded, or scheduled to terminate, via MyDot. Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on '''Hosting & Domains''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
Domains will be listed alphabetically. Scroll to the domain you wish to modify and click '''Controls''' and then '''Edit'''. 
Next to '''Schedule Event''', click '''Edit'''. 
Select the event you wish to schedule: '''Upgrade, Downgrade, or Terminate'''. 

===Upgrading===
When '''Upgrading''' a package, the available upgrades will be listed in a new dropdown. You will be able to upgrade immediately, or schedule the upgrade for month-end.Immediate upgrades will be billed for with your next invoice. 
You will be billed the difference between the price of your new service and the price of immediate upgrades are effective right away, but your reported hosting stats will only update at midnight. 

===Downgrading===
When '''Downgrading''' a package, the available downgrades will be listed in a new dropdown. Downgrades can only be scheduled for month-end. 
You will be billed the new price as of next month. 

===Terminating===
Packages can be scheduled to Terminate at month end. You will not be billed for your hosting package again, unless you exceed your traffic allowance. In that case, you will only be billed for excess traffic.

Managing your DNS Records

2022-01-31T08:43:04Z

Desmond:

Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on '''Hosting and Domains''' in the menu on the left of the page (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|thumb|right|Fig. 1]]
 
Your domain names will be listed alphabetically. Scroll to the domain you wish to manage, and click '''Controls''', and then '''DNS'''. You will see the full table of your domain's records: 
[[file:Dnstable.JPG]] 
 
==Adding a new records==
You are able to add A, CNAME, MX, and TXT records. For more on types or records and how they work, see [[What is DNS?]]. 
Click '''Add'''. Enter the relevant info, and select the record type from the dropdown and click '''Add''' again.

==Removing a DNS record==
Simply click '''Delete''' next to the record to be removed.
==Editing a DNS record==
The name and priority of a pre-existing record cannot be changed. If you wish to change the name or priority of an existing record, you will need to remove the record and add it again with the new information. 
To change the type or content of a record, click '''Edit''' next to the record to be changed.

Monitor your hosting storage

2022-01-27T13:37:22Z

Desmond:

=Check your usage and determine the cause=

Log in to [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot]

Click on "Hosting and Domains" on the left, click "Controls" next to your domain name and then click the "Usage" button.

[[File:Usage1.JPG]]

[[File:Usage2.JPG]]

"Storage usage" refers to disk space used by your website.

"Email storage usage" refers to disk space used by your email accounts.

=Removing unnecessary files from the hosting server=
'''Do not attempt this unless you are familiar with the structure of your website. We recommend making an external backup of your site before attempting any changes.'''

Log in to [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot]

Click on "Hosting and domains" then on "Controls" next to your domain name. Click on "Hosting Panel" to be redirected to the Plesk Control panel for your hosting package.

[[File:Files1.JPG]]

Click on "File Manager" to be directed to the file manager interface where unnecessary files and directories can be deleted.

[[File:Files2.JPG]]

=Removing old emails=

==If you're using an IMAP account in a mail client==

Removing old emails via IMAP is easy. Simply delete unnecessary emails in your mail client. '''Please note that these changes will be applied to the server and synchronised across all devices.''' In other words, if you delete an email on one device it will be deleted from all devices.

If you would rather retain these emails we recommend upgrading your hosting package instead.

==If you're using a POP3 account in a single mail client==
Simply modify your email account settings so that a copy of received emails will not be left on the server.

===Outlook===
#Open Outlook.
#Click the File tab > Account settings > Account settings.
#Highlight your current POP3 account and click Change.
#Note: The window that opens will tell you what type of email account you have. (Look under Type.)
#Choose More settings and click on Advanced.
#You should see a check box titled: Leave a copy of messages on the server.
#Uncheck this option.

===Apple Mail===
#After opening the Apple Mail program, click on "Mail" from the menu at the top.
#Click on "Preferences"
#Click on "Accounts" (the @ symbol)
#If you have more than one mail account, select the one you want to work with
#Click "Advanced"
#Make sure the box next to "Remove copy from server after retrieving a message" is checked.
#You can also remove messages currently saved on the server by clicking the "Remove now" button.
#Click "Save" when you close the Preference pane

==If you're using a POP3 account on multiple devices==
You will need to set your mail client to leave mail on the server long enough for all devices to retrieve email. For example, if you check for new emails on one device everyday, and on another device only once a week, you'll need to leave emails on the server for a week so that both devices can retrieve all emails.

'''The following changes must be made on all devices accessing the same email account.'''

===Outlook===
#Open Outlook.
#Click the File tab > Account settings > Account settings.
#Highlight your current POP3 account and click Change.
#Note: The window that opens will tell you what type of email account you have. (Look under Type.)
#Choose More settings and click on Advanced.
#You should see a check box titled: Leave a copy of messages on the server.
#Check this option, and then check the option "Remove from the server after" and select the appropriate number of days.
[[File:Outlookleave.png]]

===Apple Mail===
#After opening the Apple Mail program, click on "Mail" from the menu at the top.
#Click on "Preferences"
#Click on "Accounts" (the @ symbol)
#If you have more than one mail account, select the one you want to work with
#Click "Advanced"
#Make sure the box next to "Remove copy from server after retrieving a message" is checked.
#Select the appropriate time after which mail should be removed.
#Click "Save" when you close the Preference pane
[[File:Appleleave.jpg]]

==If you only access your emails via Roundcube or Webmail==
Simply log in to your mailbox and delete unnecessary emails.

Remember to empty your trash folder.

Click on "Trash" the "select > All" and click "Delete".

[[File:Roundcubedelete.JPG]]

Monitor your Mobile Broadband usage

2022-01-26T09:53:21Z

Desmond:

Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on Mobile Broadband in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
Your mobile packages will be listed by size, along with their usage for the current month. Usage is shown as number of MB used:
 
[[file:Mobileusage.JPG]] 
 
If you click the '''Usage''' button, you will be shown historical monthly usage.

==Detailed usage reports==
Should you require a more detailed breakdown of your usage, please feel free to contact us for a report. While it's not possible for us to monitor your online activity, we will be able to provide your usage broken down by session, which is more detailed than is currently available via the control panel.

Monitor your Uncapped DSL usage

2022-01-26T08:52:20Z

Desmond:

Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on '''ADSL''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
Your ADSL packages will be listed by username, along with their usage for the current month. Uncapped packages are shown with their current star rating. Hovering the mouse over the package will display a summary, including total monthly usage, and an explanation of the star rating system. Clicking the '''Usage''' button will display cumulative monthly usage for all months since the package has been active. Monthly and daily breakdowns are not available via My[Dot]

===Detailed usage info===
In order to view a breakdown of usage by day, you will need to access Internet Solution's control panel at https://users.isdsl.net/ and log in with your '''uncapped ADSL username and password'''.

Monitor your Per GB ADSL usage

2022-01-26T08:18:19Z

Desmond:

Log into [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot] and click on ADSL in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
Your ADSL packages will be listed by username, along with their usage for the current month. Usage is shown as a percentage of the base service used: 
[[file:Adslpackage.JPG]]
 
 
Hovering your mouse over a package will display a summary of the package information (Fig. 2).
 
'''Base''' traffic is the size of the package that you pay for every month. The '''limit''' is the point at which your account will be capped. You can adjust this limit at any time. See [[Adjusting your usage cap]].
 
 
Clicking on the '''Usage''' button will display monthly usage graphs (Fig. 3). 
Clicking on any of the months will expand that month into daily usage. Clicking on any of the days will expand that day into hourly usage. You can hover your mouse over any of the bars to see usage broken down into upload and download traffic. The usage will also be broken down by connecting telephone number, below the graph. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
[[file:adslsummary.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 2]] [[file:Monthlygraphs.JPG|frame|right|Fig. 3]]

Adjusting your usage cap

2022-01-26T07:55:42Z

Desmond:

==What is a hard cap?==
Per GB ADSL services will allow you to exceed your default package limit. In other words, if you have a 10GB package, you will be able to use more than 10GB in one month. Excess usage will be billed at a surcharge or "out-of-bundle" rate depending on the type of package you have. In order to prevent unexpected usage and charges, you are able to set a hard cap on your account, which will disable your ADSL connection once your usage reaches a certain point.

For example, if you have a 10GB package, but you never want to use more than 11GB, you can set your hard cap to 11GB. Please note that your usage is checked hourly, so it is possible to exceed your hard cap limit.

Once you've set a hard cap on your account, the limit will remain at that point from month to month unless you upgrade or downgrade your package. This does not mean that you will be billed for additional usage every month. You will only be billed for excess usage that you actually use.

==How to adjust your usage limit==
[[file:adsllimit.jpg|thumb|right]]
* Log in to [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot]
* Click on "'''EDIT'''" next to your ADSL package.
* Click on "'''EDIT'''" next to "Account limit".
* Next to "'''New Limit'''" enter your chosen usage limit. The value is in MB. 1GB = 1024MB
* Click "'''SAVE'''".

==Gardening==
Once you reach your usage limit, you will still be able to access my.imaginet.co.za to adjust your limit, even if you can no longer access other sites or services. This is referred to as a walled garden. When your ADSL package is in this state, it is said to be "gardened". You can log in to my.imaginet.co.za to increase your limit. Please note that it may take a few minutes for your connection to be re-enabled.

Control Panel

2022-01-25T06:57:05Z

Desmond:

Your main control panel, which we lovingly call MyDot is located at http://my.imaginet.co.za.

=MyDot Functions=
To access your control panel, please visit https://my.imaginet.co.za/ and log in with the details provided. Please note that you will need to log in using your primary My[Dot] credentials.

You will be able to log in using any Imaginet username and password, such as those for your email or ADSL accounts, however, logging in with those details will only allow you to administer that one particular service . In other words, if you log in with an Imaginet email address which is not your primary log-in, you will only be able to manage that one email address, and will not have access to other control panel functions.

If you're not sure of your primary MyDot log-in details, please contact us.
==Monitor your usage==

===ADSL===

[[Monitor your Per GB ADSL usage]] 
[[Monitor your Uncapped DSL usage]] 

===Mobile Broadband===

[[Monitor your Mobile Broadband usage]] 

===Hosting===
[[Monitor your hosting traffic]] 
[[Monitor your email traffic]] 
[[Monitor your hosting storage]] 

==Manage your hosting services==
[[View detailed hosting stats]] 
[[Upload files via Net2FTP]] 
[[Managing your DNS Records]] 
[[Modify your hosting services]] 

==Manage your Emails==
[[Creating a new email address]] 
[[Changing your email password]] 
[[Setting up forwarding and aliases]] 
[[Setting up an Auto-Reply]] 

==Manage your account==
[[Change your payment details]] 
[[Access invoices]] 
[[Manage Control Panel users]]

What does Imaginet consider spam abuse

2022-01-24T07:50:04Z

Desmond:

Imaginet, as an [http://old.ispa.org.za/about/small/imaginet.shtml ISPA member], uses ISPA’s definition of spam for the core basis of defining Spam Abuse.

ISPA’s definition is available at http://www.ispa.org.za/spam with the core being:
All unsolicited bulk email is Spam with the following exceptions:

• Mail sent by one party to another where there is already a prior relationship between the two parties and subject matter of the message(s) concerns that relationship is not spam. 
• Mail sent by one party to another with the explicit consent of the receiving party, is not spam.

In essence, ISPA believes that customers should only receive bulk mail that they have requested and/or consented to receive and/or which they would expect to receive as a result of an existing relationship.

Imaginet takes a strong stand against those who would use Imaginet's infrastructure to send any bulk e-mail or SPAM. Most people strongly object to getting such mail, and it is clearly an abuse of resources that the offender is not legally or ethically entitled to.

Users can only keep mailing lists with the acceptance and approval of the list's members and when it is their choice. If a mailing list includes addresses that cannot be delivered to or belong to people who do not want to be a part of the list, those addresses should promptly be removed.

Imaginet clients should never reply to SPAM, because this usually only confirms that your address is working and will lead to more SPAM being sent to you. We also strongly discourage users from buying lists of e-mail addresses for marketing or advertising because these lists are usually fraudulent and are made up of addresses that were gained by dishonest, untrustworthy or unethical means.

Imaginet clients must secure their mail servers against open SMTP relay – using a mail server to forward e-mails to other servers without their permission – to protect both themselves and other users. Unsecured mail servers can be abused by dishonest people to deliver SPAM. Imaginet can check clients' mail servers for open relay if they appear to be delivering SPAM. The results of a check will be given to the client, and they will have a reasonable period to fix the problem before their address will be cancelled. Imaginet can check any clients who use their mail servers as “smart hosts” or similar services for open relay at any time.

[https://www.imaginet.co.za/content/legal/acceptable-use-policy.html Acceptable Use Policy]

How you can blacklist email addresses

2022-01-17T09:25:47Z

Desmond:

Firstly go to MyDot through the following link: [https://my.imaginet.co.za https://my.imaginet.co.za/]

You will be prompted with a login screen. Enter your registered email address and password. (Fig. 1)
[[file:Mydotlogin.jpg ‎|thumb|right|Fig. 1]]
You are now logged into the the MyDot interface. You will select the Email option to proceed. (Fig. 2)
[[file:Mydotmain.jpg ‎|thumb|right|Fig. 2]]
Go ahead and click on View – Edit - Black List and then Edit, you will then see an option to Add Address to Block (Fig. 3)
[[file:Blockemail.jpg ‎|thumb|right|Fig. 3]]

[[What is spam]]

[[How Imaginet blocks spam]]

[[How you can prevent spam]]

[[What does Imaginet consider spam abuse]]

[[How to report spam to Imaginet]]

How you can prevent spam

2022-01-17T09:06:00Z

Desmond:

Spam is a daily headache for most people who use the Internet. These emails usually contain links or attached files that can potentially infect your computer, laptop or cellphone with malware, spyware or viruses. It is important to understand the best ways to prevent spam.

5 steps to follow to limit spam:

1: Confirm the email is a spam message. If it is not from someone who you recognise, if they claim you have won a large sum of money, or if it's too good to be true, are good examples.

2: Don't post your e-mail address on a public forum or website. It is estimated that 95% of all junk e-mail is caused by a person publicly disclosing his or her e-mail address. There are many robots and scripts that automatically scan websites for e-mail addresses.

3: Do not respond to spam emails since the sending address of the spam email is most likely hacked itself and is just being used to send out the spam emails. A spammer will never use their own email address to send out spam. However in some other cases if you do respond, the spammer will take notice and this will just confirm to them that your email address is valid and can be used for more spam.

4: Only use and submit your email address to trusted/reputable websites that do not sell your email address to 3rd parties or advertisers.

5: Report spam to Imaginet by forwarding the original spam email as an '''attachment''' to spam@imaginet.co.za for processing.

[[How Imaginet blocks spam]]

[[How you can blacklist email addresses]]

[[What does Imaginet consider spam abuse]]

[[How to report spam to Imaginet]]

What is spam

2022-01-12T11:16:16Z

Desmond:

Spam (unsolicited email) is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately. While the most widely recognized form of spam is e-mail spam, the term is applied to similar abuses in other media such text messaging. Please see how you can prevent spam, block known spam addresses and report spam to Imaginet through the links at the bottom of the page. Something important to remember is that phishing and spoofing is popular on the Internet especially for spammers who try and retrieve your banking username and password details. Your bank will never send an unsolicited message to you requesting you to change your password. Always check the senders address and if you are unsure, verify this message by phoning your bank and reporting this directly to them.

[http://www.internet.org.za/ect_act.html#Unsolicited_goods_services_or_communications The Electronic Communications and Transactions Act] of 2002 provides for the facilitation and regulation of electronic communications and transactions; to provide for the development of a national e-strategy for the Republic of South Africa and protects consumers from receiving unsolicited email.

'''Unsolicited goods, services or communications'''

45.
(1) Any person who sends unsolicited commercial communications to consumers, must provide the consumer— 
* with the option to cancel his or her subscription to the mailing list of that person; and
* with the identifying particulars of the source from which that person obtained the consumer's personal information, on request of the consumer. 
(2) No agreement is concluded where a consumer has failed to respond to an unsolicited communication. 
(3) Any person who fails to comply with or contravenes subsection (1) is guilty of an offence and liable, on conviction, to the penalties prescribed in section 89(1). 
(4) Any person who sends unsolicited commercial communications to a person who has advised the sender that such communications are unwelcome, is guilty of an offence and liable, on conviction, to the penalties prescribed in section 89(1). 

[[How Imaginet blocks spam]]

[[How you can prevent spam]]

[[How you can blacklist email addresses]]

[[What does Imaginet consider spam abuse]]

[[How to report spam to Imaginet]]

What is spam

2021-12-17T15:00:34Z

Desmond:

Spam (unsolicited email) is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately. While the most widely recognized form of spam is e-mail spam, the term is applied to similar abuses in other media such text messaging. Please see how you can prevent spam, block known spam addresses and report spam to Imaginet through the links at the bottom of the page. Something important to remember is that phishing and spoofing is popular on the Internet especially for spammers to try and retrieve your banking username and password details. Your bank will never send an unsolicited message to you requesting you to change your password. Always check the senders address and if you are unsure, verify this message by phoning your bank and reporting this directly to them.

[http://www.internet.org.za/ect_act.html#Unsolicited_goods_services_or_communications The Electronic Communications and Transactions Act] of 2002 provides for the facilitation and regulation of electronic communications and transactions; to provide for the development of a national e-strategy for the Republic of South Africa and protects consumers from receiving unsolicited email.

'''Unsolicited goods, services or communications'''

45.
(1) Any person who sends unsolicited commercial communications to consumers, must provide the consumer— 
* with the option to cancel his or her subscription to the mailing list of that person; and
* with the identifying particulars of the source from which that person obtained the consumer's personal information, on request of the consumer. 
(2) No agreement is concluded where a consumer has failed to respond to an unsolicited communication. 
(3) Any person who fails to comply with or contravenes subsection (1) is guilty of an offence and liable, on conviction, to the penalties prescribed in section 89(1). 
(4) Any person who sends unsolicited commercial communications to a person who has advised the sender that such communications are unwelcome, is guilty of an offence and liable, on conviction, to the penalties prescribed in section 89(1). 

[[How Imaginet blocks spam]]

[[How you can prevent spam]]

[[How you can blacklist email addresses]]

[[What does Imaginet consider spam abuse]]

[[How to report spam to Imaginet]]

Setting up an Auto-Reply

2021-12-17T10:24:56Z

Desmond:

Log into http://my.imaginet.co.za/ and click on '''Email''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
* You will be presented with a list of domains. 
* Locate your email address by scrolling to the correct domain and clicking '''View'''. 
* Scroll to the address you wish to modify, and click '''Edit'''. 
* Next to '''Autoreply''' click '''Edit'''. 
* Place a check in the box next to '''On'''. You will be able to disable the autoreply easily by clearing this option. This is useful if you often use the same autoreply message. 
* Enter the text of the message, and click '''Save'''.
* If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Setting up forwarding and aliases

2021-12-17T10:15:04Z

Desmond:

Log into http://my.imaginet.co.za/ and click on '''Email''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
* You will be presented with a list of domains. 
* Locate your email address by scrolling to the correct domain and clicking '''View'''. 
* Scroll to the address you wish to modify, and click '''Edit'''. 
* Next to '''Forwards''' click '''Edit'''. 
* If you wish emails to be delivered to both addresses, place a check next to '''Store Mail'''. If you wish mail to be delivered only to the new address, clear the '''Store Mail''' option. 
* Enter the forwarding address, and click '''Save'''.
* If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Changing your email password

2021-12-17T08:57:10Z

Desmond:

Log into http://my.imaginet.co.za/ and click on '''Email''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
* You will be presented with a list of domains. 
* Locate your email address by scrolling to the correct domain and clicking '''View'''. 
* Scroll to the address you wish to modify, and click '''Edit'''. 
* Next to '''Passwords''', click '''Edit'''. 
* Enter your password into both fields. Ensure that it's the same both times. Click '''Save'''.

* If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Changing your email password

2021-12-17T08:56:49Z

Desmond:

Creating a new email address

2021-12-15T15:09:25Z

Desmond:

Log into https://my.imaginet.co.za/ and click on '''Email''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
* You will be presented with a list of domains. 
* Click the '''Add''' button at the top right. 
* Select the domain @ which you would like to create a new email address. 
* Enter the username - the part of the address before the @. 
* Click '''Accept'''. 
* You will need to enter your chosen password twice. Ensure that it's the same both times. 
* Click '''Add'''. 
[[file:Newaddress.JPG]] 
And that's it! You have created a new email address. If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Creating a new email address

2021-12-15T15:04:04Z

Desmond:

Log into http://my.imaginet.co.za/ and click on '''Email''' in the menu on the left (Fig. 1). [[file:Mydotmenu.JPG|frame|left|Fig. 1]]
 
* You will be presented with a list of domains. 
* Click the '''Add''' button at the top right. 
* Select the domain @ which you would like to create a new email address. 
* Enter the username - the part of the address before the @. 
* Click '''Accept'''. 
* You will need to enter your chosen password twice. Ensure that it's the same both times. 
* Click '''Add'''. 
[[file:Newaddress.JPG]] 
And that's it! You have created a new email address. If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Eudora

2021-12-15T14:06:04Z

Desmond:

=Video Instructions=
Watch our instructional video here: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXvnhdQ-G-Q Eudora Tutorial]

=Setting up Eudora=
* Ensure that you have your email details on hand. If you don't have your email details, you can check them on your control panel [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ here], or email info@imaginet.co.za and request that a copy be sent to you.
* Open Eudora, and click on '''Tools'''.
* Click on '''Account settings'''.
* Click on '''Add account'''.
* Select '''Email account''' and click '''Next'''.
* Type your actual name into ''Your name'''.
* Enter your '''full''' email address into '''Email Address''' and click '''Next'''.
* Select '''POP''' as the type of incoming server, and enter the incoming server name: '''pop3.imaginet.co.za'''
* Untick the option '''Use global inbox'''.
* Your outgoing server will depend on your service provider. You need to enter the outgoing server of the company that provides your '''Internet connection'''. If you don't know your provider's outgoing server, you can see our list here: [[List of outgoing servers]]. Enter '''587''' or '''25''' as the outgoing server '''port''' if you used the Imaginet SMTP details.
* Click '''Next'''.
* Enter your incoming username, which is your '''full email address'''.
* Enter your outgoing username, which is also your '''full email address'''. Click '''Next'''.
* Give this new account a name. The account name can be anything you like. Click '''Next'''.
* Check the settings, and click '''Finish''' if everything is correct.
* Your email account has now been set up.
* If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

MS Outlook

2021-12-15T14:02:07Z

Desmond:

=Video instruction=
Watch our instructional video [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7krWuFFtwBM here]

=Setting up MS Outlook 2010=
* Ensure that you have your email details on hand. If you don't have your email details, you can check them on your control panel [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ here], or email info@imaginet.co.za and request that a copy be sent to you.
* Open MS Outlook.
[[File:Outlook 2010.JPG ‎]]
* Click '''File'''
* Click '''Add account'''.
* Select '''Manually configure server settings or additional server types''' and click '''Next'''.
[[File:Outlook - Add a New Account.jpg ‎]]
* Select '''Internet E-mail''' and click '''Next'''.
* Type your actual name into ''Your name'''.
* Type your full email address into '''E-mail Address'''.
* Select '''POP3''' for account type.

* Enter the '''Incoming mail server (POP3)''': ''''pop3.imaginet.co.za''''
* Your outgoing server will depend on your service provider. You need to enter the outgoing server of the company that provides your '''Internet connection'''. If you don't know your provider's outgoing server, you can see our list here: [[List of outgoing servers]]. Enter '''587''' or '''25''' as the outgoing server '''port''' if you used the Imaginet SMTP details.
* Next, enter your '''logon information'''. Your '''user name''' is your full email address. The '''password''' is your '''email password'''.
[[File:Outlook - POP3 Settings.JPG]]
* Select '''Remember password''' and click '''Next'''.
* Outlook will test the settings. If you have entered your details correctly, the tests will be passed, and you can click '''Close''' and then '''Finish'''. Your email account has now been set up.
*If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Mozilla Thunderbird

2021-12-15T13:57:33Z

Desmond:

=Video Instructions=
Watch our instructional video here: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWh-EnnFZ8U Thunderbird Tutorial]

=Setting up Mozilla Thunderbird=
* Ensure that you have your email details on hand. If you don't have your email details, you can check them on your control panel [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ here], or email info@imaginet.co.za and request that a copy be sent to you.
[[File:1.png]]
* Open Thunderbird and click '''File'''.
* Select '''New''' and click '''Mail account'''.
[[File:2.png]]
* Enter '''your name''', your '''full email address''' and your email '''password'''.
* Select '''Remember password''' and click '''Continue'''.
* After Thunderbird has completed testing for automatic account settings, click '''Edit'''.
[[File:3.png]]
* Enter your '''full email address''' under '''User name'''.
* Enter '''pop3.imaginet.co.za''' as the incoming server.
* Select '''POP''' as incoming server '''type'''.
* Enter '''110''' as the incoming server '''port'''.
* Select '''None''' instead of '''SSL/TLS'''.
* Your outgoing server will depend on your service provider. You need to enter the outgoing server of the company that provides your '''Internet connection'''. If you don't know your provider's outgoing server, you can see our list here: [[List of outgoing servers]]. Enter '''587''' or '''25''' as the outgoing server '''port''' if you used the Imaginet SMTP details.
* Click '''Manual setup'''.
* Check that the settings are correct. Incoming server authentication method should be set to '''Password transmitted insecurely'''.
* Ensure that the outgoing server settings are correct.
* Click '''OK''' and '''OK''' again.
* Your email account has now been set up.
* If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Windows Live mail

2021-12-15T12:57:35Z

Desmond:

=Video Instructions=
Watch our instructional video here: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OKmvnhBiXA Windows Live Mail Tutorial]

=Setting up Windows Live Mail=
* Ensure that you have your email details on hand. If you don't have your email details, you can check them on your control panel [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ here], or email info@imaginet.co.za and request that a copy be sent to you.
* Open Windows Live Mail and click '''Accounts'''.
* Click the '''Email''' button.
* Enter your '''Email address'''.
* Enter your '''Password''' which can be found on your email datasheet.
* Make sure that '''Remember this password''' is selected.
* Enter your name or company name into the '''Display name''' field.
* Select '''Manually configure server settings''' and click '''Next'''.
* Select '''POP''' for incoming server type, and enter '''pop3.imaginet.co.za''' and the server address. The port should be '''110'''.
* Select '''Clear text''' for authentication.
* The '''logon user name''' should be your full email address.
* Enter your outgoing server address. Your outgoing server will depend on your service provider. You need to enter the outgoing server of the company that provides your '''Internet connection'''. If you don't know your provider's outgoing server, you can see our list here: [[List of outgoing servers]]
* Click '''Next''' and then '''Finish'''.
* If you encounter any trouble while adding your new address, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

Windows Live mail

2021-12-15T11:54:03Z

Desmond:

=Video Instructions=
Watch our instructional video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OKmvnhBiXA

=Setting up Windows Live Mail=
* Ensure that you have your email details on hand. If you don't have your email details, you can check them on your control panel [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ here], or email info@imaginet.co.za and request that a copy be sent to you.
* Open Windows Live Mail and click '''Accounts'''.
* Click the '''Email''' button.
* Enter your '''Email address'''.
* Enter your '''Password''' which can be found on your email datasheet.
* Make sure that '''Remember this password''' is selected.
* Enter your name or company name into the '''Display name''' field.
* Select '''Manually configure server settings''' and click '''Next'''.
* Select '''POP''' for incoming server type, and enter '''pop3.imaginet.co.za''' and the server address. The port should be '''110'''.
* Select '''Clear text''' for authentication.
* The '''logon user name''' should be your full email address.
* Enter your outgoing server address. Your outgoing server will depend on your service provider. You need to enter the outgoing server of the company that provides your '''Internet connection'''. If you don't know your provider's outgoing server, you can see our list here: [[List of outgoing servers]]
* Click '''Next''' and then '''Finish'''.
* If you encounter any trouble while adding your new address, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

MS Outlook Express

2021-12-15T11:28:44Z

Desmond:

=Video instructions=
Watch our instructional video here: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdeDFWLpr9g Outlook Express Tutorial]

=Setting up MS Outlook Express=
* Ensure that you have your email details on hand. If you don't have your email details, you can check for them on your control panel [[https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot Control Panel]], or email info@imaginet.co.za and request that a copy be sent to you.
* Open Outlook Express.
* Click '''Tools'''.
* Select '''Accounts'''.
[[File:Outlookexp1.jpg]]
* Select '''Mail''' on the top tab of the dialogue box and click '''Add''', then click '''Mail'''
[[File:Outlookexp2.jpg]]
* Select '''Manually configure server settings or additional server types''' and click '''Next'''.
* Select '''Internet E-mail''' and click '''Next'''.
* Type your actual name into ''Your name'''. You can use your company's name is it's a business address.
* Type your full email address into '''E-mail Address'''.
* Select '''POP3''' for account type.
* Enter the '''Incoming mail server (POP3)''': ''''pop3.imaginet.co.za''''
* Your outgoing server will depend on your service provider. You need to enter the outgoing server of the company that provides your '''Internet connection'''. If you don't know your provider's outgoing server, you can see our list here: [[List of outgoing servers]]. If Imaginet is your service provider then: 
* Enter the '''Outgoing mail server (SMTP)''': ''''smtp.imaginet.co.za'''' 
* Next, enter your '''logon information'''. Your '''user name''' is your full email address. The '''password''' is your '''email password'''.
* Select '''Remember password''' and click '''Next'''.
* Outlook will test the settings. If you have entered your details correctly, the tests will be passed, and you can click '''Clcose''' and then '''Finish'''. Your email account has now been set up.
*If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

MS Outlook

2021-12-15T11:27:36Z

Desmond:

=Video instruction=
Watch our instructional video [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7krWuFFtwBM here]

=Setting up MS Outlook 2010=
* Ensure that you have your email details on hand. If you don't have your email details, you can check them on your control panel [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ here], or email info@imaginet.co.za and request that a copy be sent to you.
* Open MS Outlook.
[[File:Outlook 2010.JPG ‎]]
* Click '''File'''
* Click '''Add account'''.
* Select '''Manually configure server settings or additional server types''' and click '''Next'''.
[[File:Outlook - Add a New Account.jpg ‎]]
* Select '''Internet E-mail''' and click '''Next'''.
* Type your actual name into ''Your name'''.
* Type your full email address into '''E-mail Address'''.
* Select '''POP3''' for account type.

* Enter the '''Incoming mail server (POP3)''': ''''pop3.imaginet.co.za''''
* Your outgoing server will depend on your service provider. You need to enter the outgoing server of the company that provides your '''Internet connection'''. If you don't know your provider's outgoing server, you can see our list here: [[List of outgoing servers]]. If Imaginet is your service provider then: 
* Enter the '''Outgoing mail server (SMTP)''': ''''smtp.imaginet.co.za'''' 
* Next, enter your '''logon information'''. Your '''user name''' is your full email address. The '''password''' is your '''email password'''.
[[File:Outlook - POP3 Settings.JPG]]
* Select '''Remember password''' and click '''Next'''.
* Outlook will test the settings. If you have entered your details correctly, the tests will be passed, and you can click '''Close''' and then '''Finish'''. Your email account has now been set up.
*If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

MS Outlook

2021-12-15T11:19:14Z

Desmond:

=Video instruction=
Watch our instructional video [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7krWuFFtwBM here]

=Setting up MS Outlook 2010=
* Ensure that you have your email details on hand. If you don't have your email details, you can check them on your control panel [https://my.imaginet.co.za/ here], or email info@imaginet.co.za and request that a copy be sent to you.
* Open MS Outlook.
[[File:Outlook 2010.JPG ‎]]
* Click '''File'''
* Click '''Add account'''.
* Select '''Manually configure server settings or additional server types''' and click '''Next'''.
[[File:Outlook - Add a New Account.jpg ‎]]
* Select '''Internet E-mail''' and click '''Next'''.
* Type your actual name into ''Your name'''.
* Type your full email address into '''E-mail Address'''.
* Select '''POP3''' for account type.

* Enter the '''Incoming mail server (POP3)''': ''''pop3.imaginet.co.za''''
* Your outgoing server will depend on your service provider. You need to enter the outgoing server of the company that provides your '''Internet connection'''. If you don't know your provider's outgoing server, you can see our list here: [[List of outgoing servers]]. If Imaginet is your service provider then: 
* '''Outgoing mail server (SMTP)''': ''''smtp.imaginet.co.za'''' 
* Next, enter your '''logon information'''. Your '''user name''' is your full email address. The '''password''' is your '''email password'''.
[[File:Outlook - POP3 Settings.JPG]]
* Select '''Remember password''' and click '''Next'''.
* Outlook will test the settings. If you have entered your details correctly, the tests will be passed, and you can click '''Close''' and then '''Finish'''. Your email account has now been set up.
*If you experience any trouble, please give us a call on 086-111-1101 for assistance.

List of outgoing servers

2021-12-15T10:45:40Z

Desmond:

{| border="1"
|-
|ADSL Semi-Shaped||smtp-dsl.imaginet.co.za/smtp-dsl.provide.co.za
|-
|ADSL Unshaped||smtp.saix.net
|-
|Dialup||smtp.saix.net
|-
|Imaginet ||smtp.imaginet.co.za
|-
|Vodacom||smtp.vodamail.co.za
|-
|MTN||mail.mtn.co.za
|-
|Cell C||mail.cmobile.co.za
|-
|Virgin Mobile||mail.cmobile.co.za
|-
|8ta||smtp.saix.net
|-
|iBurst||mail.iburst.co.za
|-
|ADSL Premium||smtp.isdsl.net
|-
|ADSL Uncapped||smtp.isdsl.net
|}

If your provider's outgoing server does not appear on this list, please contact your ISP directly for the latest server details.

Recommended Settings for Outlook

2021-12-15T09:23:59Z

Desmond:

=Changing the Automatic Send/Receive Time in Outlook 2010=

*Step 1: Click '''File''', and then '''Options'''.
A pop-up with the heading '''Outlook Options''' will appear. 
[[File:Outlook2010 - Changing Auto SendReceive - Step 1.jpg]]

*Step 2: In the left hand column find and click '''Advanced'''. 
[[File:Outlook2010 - Changing Auto SendReceive - Step 2.jpg ]]

*Step 3: Scroll down, using the scroll on the right of the pop-up, until you see '''Send and Receive'''. 
[[File:Outlook2010 - Changing Auto SendReceive - Step 3.jpg ]]

Click on the '''Send and Receive''' button. A new pop-up with heading '''Send/Receive Groups''' will appear. 
[[File:Outlook2010 - Changing Auto SendReceive - Step 4.jpg ]]

*Step 4: Under '''Setting for group "All Accounts"''' you will see a check box, the second one, is for Schedule an automatic send/receive every [time field] minutes. 
 
We recommend that you either uncheck this box, so that your mail client only checks for new mail when you click the Send/Receive button, or ensure the time is set to 30 minutes.

The difference between POP3 and IMAP

2021-12-15T09:16:10Z

Desmond:

=POP3 (Post Office Protocol)=
Computers a decade ago only had limited, low bandwidth access to remote computers, so POP was created in an effort to create a simple way to download copies of emails for offline reading on a personal computer.

Since POP3 creates local copies of emails and deletes the originals from the server, the emails are tied to that specific device or computer, and cannot be accessed via any webmail or any separate client on other computers. Although this can be changed in most mail clients by selecting an option of leaving a copy of the message on server.

While POP3 is based on a model of offline email, there’s no reason to call it obsolete technology, as it does have its uses and is a realiable transport protocol for emails.

=IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)=
IMAP seems to suit the modern day world of always-on internet connectivity. The idea was to keep users from having to be tied to a single email client, giving them the ability to read their emails as if they were “in the cloud.”

Compared to POP3, IMAP allows users to log into many different email clients or webmail interfaces and view the same emails, because the emails are kept on remote email servers until the user deletes them. In a world where we now check our email on web interfaces, email clients, and on mobile phones, IMAP has become extremely popular. It isn’t without its problems, though.

Because IMAP stores emails on a remote mail server, you’ll be limited by the size of your mailbox quota. If you have huge numbers of emails you want to keep, you could run into problems sending and receiving mail when your box is full. Some users sidestep this problem by making local archived copies of emails using their email client on their computer, and then deleting them from the remote server. Thereby reducing disk space used on the remote email server.

=Which Do I Use to Set Up My Email?=

Depending on your style of communicating and how you prefer to access your email, below are a couple of pointers to choose between IMAP and POP3:
*If you use or check your email from a lot of devices, phones, or computers, set up your email clients to use IMAP.
*If you mostly use webmail and want your phone or iPad to sync with your webmail, use IMAP.
*If you’re using one email client on one dedicated machine (say, in your office), you might be fine with POP3.
*If you have a huge history of email, you may want to use POP3 to keep from running out of space on the remote email server.

Once you have chosen the server that suits your lifestyle, there are one or two other pointers that should be kept in mind to make sure that your email traffic is kept to a minimum.

Setting up your Stratus Backup service

2021-12-15T07:23:59Z

Desmond:

=Installation=
#Download the Soteria client

Windows: https://download.soteriacloud.co.za/client_install/Guardian_4_4_0_Client_Win.zip

iOS: https://download.soteriacloud.co.za/client_install/Guardian_4_4_0_SP_IMac_Client_Only.zip

#Install the software:
##Double-click Guardian where you have saved it, should be in Downloads, and choose "Run".
##While installing the software, you choose a Machine ID (Guardian ID) which is a unique name for your computer. [[FILE:SOTERIA1.JPG|thumb|Step 3.2: Click "Sign Up"]]
##Restart your computer after the installation is complete.
#Configuring Soteria Client:
##Open the web console, (Guardian). [[FILE:SOTERIA2.JPG|thumb|Step 3.3]]
##Click "Sign Up" (under the Login button).
##Enter the following access details:
###Backup Server: '''backup04.ct.za.soteriabackup.net'''
###Customer Pass Key ID: '''(A unique key will be provided by Imaginet on the product datasheet'''
###User Name [Machine ID]: '''(Any Globally Unique Name for this computer)'''
###Password: '''(Any password of your choice)'''
#Click "Register Client" button to link your computer to the backup server.

=Creating backup schedules=
#Choose a Backup name.
#Choose the files/folders you wish to backup. '''NOTE:'''Special folders like "Desktop", "My Documents", "My Music" etc. can't be grouped with other folders in the same backup job, and cannot be backed up continuously. If you want to back up any of these special folders, create a separate backup job for each, and set the backup schedule to anything other than ''continuous''.
#Choose a time of day when your computer will be on.
#Choose the Password you will encrypt your files with. '''REMEMBER THAT THIS PASSWORD CANNOT BE RECOVERED IF YOU FORGET IT. IF YOU CHOOSE TO ENCRYPT YOUR FILES AND THE PASSWORD IS LOST, THERE IS NO WAY TO RECOVER THE ENCRYPTED FILES. IF YOU'RE WORRIED ABOUT FORGETTING YOUR PASSWORD, LEAVE THESE SPACES BLACK. HOWEVER, YOUR DATA WILL THEN NOT BE ENCRYPTED.'''
#Click Save.

[[FILE:SOTERIA3.JPG|thumb|500px|Creating a backup schedule]]

How to Backup your website via Hosting Panel

2021-12-14T15:05:51Z

Desmond:

'''Backup your Website'''

* Simply log into your Control Panel [[https://my.imaginet.co.za/ MyDot]]
* Navigate to '''Hosting & Domains''' (On your left side of your screen)
* Select the Domain that you wish to make the backups for.
* Click on '''Controls''' -> '''Hosting Panel'''
* You should now see a new page called Plesk
* On your right hand side you will see a heading called '''Backups Manager'''. Select that option.
* Click on the Backup Button at the top which will then direct you to a new window.
* You will have the option to choose which type of backup you would like.
* If you select Full, this would make a full backup of your website content and would then be stored under your subscription plan. If selecting the Incremental option, this would only backup the changes made to the website.( '''Please note that whether you select Full or Incremental backups, the backups would be stored under your subscription plan and would count towards your Package usage''') and be charged accordingly to the amount of usage consumed.
* However if you have a backup storage server located elsewhere you can simply select the '''Remote storage settings''' tab you will have the option to enter the remote storage servers details in.
* If the above option is selected, your website backups would then be stored on that server that you have entered.
* By selecting the schedule option, you have the choice of choosing how frequent you want the server to make backups of your website and for how long you wish for the server to keep backups for.

How to Backup your website

2021-12-14T12:12:32Z

Desmond:

'''Step 1:'''Firstly ensure that you have all your logins supplied on your datasheet that was sent to you.

To backup your database simply visit your browser and type in phpmyadmin.domain.com ('''please note to replace the domain.com with your actual domain name''').

You should see a login page like this:

'''Step 2:'''Enter the database username and password that is listed on your datasheet and press go.

[[File:Capture1.PNG]]

Once you are logged in you should see a table filled with information.

[[File:Database-check.PNG]]

'''Step 3:'''Tick the box that says '''check all''' and right next to that you should see a drop down menu.
choose the option that says '''Export'''.

Once you have selected '''Export''', it will open up the next step which is to click on '''GO''' that will begin downloading your database to your local computer in the Downloads directory as shown below:

[[File:Export-database.PNG]]

You have finally completed the backup download of your database to your local machine.

'''Step 4:'''The next and final step is to backup your actual web content that is located in your root directory known as httpdocs.

Simply open up filezilla on your computer if you already have it installed and if not, you can simply download it from this link '''[https://filezilla-project.org/download.php FileZilla]'''

Open up filezilla and enter your details.

For example, 
'''host''': your domain.com 
'''Username''': your ftp username 
'''Password''' your ftp password 
'''Port''' you may leave it blank 

Click on quick connect after entering your details and look for the folder called httpdocs and double click it.

[[File:Filezilla1.PNG]]

You should see all your content listed.

On the left side of your screen, you should see your local directories on your computer as shown in the above image. Where it says Local site '''C:\Users\Dylan\''', that is where your site will be stored.
You may change that if you wish to do so. However, I chose to backup the site up in the Downloads directory within a folder called website1. 

The next step will detail how you can create the folder you wish to store your content in.

'''Step 5:'''Firstly right click and create a directory that you want the site files to be copied too.

[[File:Create- directory.PNG]]

After the folder has been created, double click on the folder you just created and it should change the local site path to the folder you just created.

In my case it is - '''C:\Users\Dylan\Downloads\website1\'''

'''Step 6:''' '''Press ctrl + A''' so all your site content is highlighted, then right click and select '''download'''.

[[File:Downloading_content.PNG]]

This may take a while depending on the size of all your content. Below will show you the progress on the download

[[File:Content-downloading.PNG]]

Once completed, you will have successfully made your own backup of the site.

After uploading my site, it displays but the images are missing

2021-12-14T10:42:23Z

Desmond:

The most common causes for images not displaying is the following.

1. '''Case Sensitivity''' - Since all Linux servers are case sensitive, you need to make sure that if you have specified in your code to use an uppercase image file name that you make sure that the file name is in uppercase as well. Have a look at this example below.

Problem

<img src="http://www.imaginet.co.za/html/new_images/top_menu/Imaginet_Logo.PNG" alt="Logo">
As you can see in the code the File name is "'''Imaginet_Logo.PNG'''" but the actual file name stored on the server is "'''imaginet_logo.png'''"

Solution

<img src="http://www.imaginet.co.za/html/new_images/top_menu/imaginet_logo.png" alt="Logo">
As you can see the File name is "imaginet_logo.png" // The code needs to match the image name stored on the server otherwise it will not display.

2. '''Path to images''' - When in doubt and you are sure that you uploaded all your files, always double check the path to the images in your code.

If you placed all your images in a folder called "'''images'''", make sure that the code has the correct path. Below is an example of what it should look like.

<img src="/images/image1.png" alt="Example"> // Note that the src="" specifies the images directory.

I uploaded my files to your server but my website is not displaying

2021-12-14T08:48:50Z

Desmond:

The most common reason for your site not displaying is because by default, all our hosting servers are set to look for the '''index.html''' or '''index.php''' file as the home page. If you have created your site and its home page is '''home.html''' or '''Index.html''', you have two options.

1. Create and empty '''index.html''' file and paste the contents from your home.html file.

2. Create a blank index.html file and add a the following.
<html>
<head>
<meta http-equiv="refresh" content="0;url=http://www.yourdomainname.co.za/yourhomepagefile ">
</head>
<body>
</body>
</html>

Please note that if you have used an uppercase "I" in "Index.html" it won't work either, you will either need to use of one the above solutions or change all the code that would reference "Index.html" to "index.html".

If you are still experiencing issues, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Using Imaginet Formailer (HTML)

2021-12-14T07:59:04Z

Desmond:

This tutorial explains how to make use of the Imaginet Form Mailer. Please note that you will need to build your own contact form as this is not something that we can assist you with.

The form mailer script takes the basic form below, pay special attention to the first 4 lines:

<FORM NAME="test" METHOD="post" ACTION="http://www.imaginet.co.za/mailer.php">
<INPUT TYPE="hidden" NAME="MailTo" VALUE="yourname@yourdomain.co.za">
<INPUT TYPE="hidden" NAME="Subject" VALUE="The subject of the email message">
<INPUT TYPE="hidden" NAME="ReturnURL" VALUE="http://www.yourdomain.co.za/thankyoupage.htm">
<INPUT TYPE='checkbox' NAME='accept' STYLE='display: none;'><LABEL FOR="accept" STYLE='display: none;'> I Accept</LABEL>
...
Other form fields.
...
<INPUT TYPE="submit" NAME="SUBMIT" VALUE="submit">
</FORM>

I repeat, the above lines must be the first four lines of the form.

You must edit the first four lines to suit your website, and your email address.
Here is a line by line description of what you should and shouldn't change.

'''Line #1:'''
<FORM NAME="FormName" METHOD="post" ACTION="http://www.imaginet.co.za/mailer.php">

You can replace FormName, but there's really no need to. It's best not to change
anything on this line.

'''Line #2:'''
<INPUT TYPE="hidden" NAME="MailTo" VALUE="yourname@yourdomain.co.za">

Replace "yourname@yourdomain.co.za" with the email address that you want the results
of the form mailed to. Do not change anything else on this line. Only one (1) 'MailTo' email address
is allowed per form.

'''Line #3:'''
<INPUT TYPE="hidden" NAME="Subject" VALUE="The subject of the email message">

Replace "The subject of the email message" with the subject of your email message.
Be sure that the subject line is enclosed in single-quotes ( ' ) as in the example.

'''Line #4:'''
<INPUT TYPE="hidden" NAME="ReturnURL" VALUE="http://www.yourdomain.co.za/thankyoupage.htm">

Replace "http://www.yourdomain.co.za/thankyoupage.html" with the FULL URL (web address)
of the web page you want to refer the person to after the form has been submitted.
For example, a web page that thanks the visitor for filling out the form.

'''Line #5:'''
<INPUT TYPE='checkbox' NAME='accept' STYLE='display: none;'><LABEL FOR="accept" STYLE='display: none;'> I Accept</LABEL>

This is a hidden field to help protect against spam

Following these first five lines, you can add any form fields of any type, such as...

<INPUT TYPE="text" NAME="SomeFieldName">
<INPUT TYPE="text" NAME="SomeOtherFieldName">

The end of your form should have a submit button and close the form:

<INPUT TYPE="submit" NAME="SUBMIT" VALUE="submit">
</FORM>

Once you have completed your form, be sure to test it thoroughly to ensure that it
is working properly. Any errors will be displayed on the page when you submit the form.

'''PLEASE NOTE:'''
Use of the Imaginet Form Mailer is at your own risk. Imaginet provides the form mailer as is
and does not guarantee its usefulness, functionality, or availability. Imaginet will not be held
liable for any costs or losses of any kind that result from the free Imaginet Form Mailer's use.

Imaginet provides this as a free service, and therefore does not provide support for the
use of this function. If you have problems with building the form, it is highly suggested
that you enlist the aid of a qualified web designer.

How to restore a MYSQL database phpmyadmin

2021-12-13T14:16:52Z

Desmond:

The previous tutorial ([[How to drop all the database tables]]) showed you how to drop all the database tables. Being able to restore a database is really useful to know as this is something that you will be doing on a regular basis if you are moving websites ect.

If you remember, we showed you how to create a backup of your database, now we will show you how to restore your database from the backup that you made using this tutorial ([[How to backup a MYSQL database using phpmyadmin]]).

* '''Step 1'''
Login to http://phpyadmin.yourdomainame.co.za and select the database.

[[File:restoredb_img1.PNG|600px|thumb|center]]

* '''Step 2'''
Select Import
[[File:restoredb_img2.PNG|600px|thumb|center]]

* '''Step 3'''

Click on the Browse button and locate the .sql backup you made.
[[File:restoredb_img3.PNG|600px|thumb|center]]

* '''Step 4'''

The final step is to click on the go button and your database should be restored, remember that it can take some time depending on how large the database is.

How to drop all the database tables

2021-12-13T14:15:02Z

Desmond:

* Step 1
Login to http://phpmyadmin.yourdomain.co.za and Select the database
[[File:databasedrop_img1.PNG|600px|thumb|center]]

* Step 2
You then need to select all the database tables by selecting "Check All" and then select "Drop Tables" from the drop down option.
[[File:databasedrop_img2.PNG|600px|thumb|center]]

* Step 3
You will then be asked if you want to drop the selected tables, select "Yes".
[[File:databasedrop_img3.PNG|600px|thumb|center]]

* Step 4
Once all the tables have been removed, you should see the following and notice that there will now be a (0) next to the database.
[[File:databasedrop_img4.PNG|600px|thumb|center]]

Why does my CMS get hacked so often

2021-12-13T14:12:12Z

Desmond:

The most common reason for Content Management System exploits are due to the following reasons.

'''Running Outdated Versions''' - The most common reason for CMS exploits are due to them needing to be kept up to date and this has become a big problem. Its up to you or your web developer to ensure that your site is kept up to date at all times.

'''Insecure Passwords''' - It's important that when creating a new database or changing the ftp details that you don't use common passwords such as "password123" or "123456" as an example,the same applies to the CMS back end.

'''Insecure File Permissions''' - It's important that you do not change any files or directories to 777, firstly this is no longer required as all our hosting servers have been optimized to run the latest web applications and secondly it poses a huge security threat to your website. If you are having issues with File permissions, contact us immediately and we will investigate further.

.htaccess block ip`s

2021-12-13T14:08:56Z

Desmond:

This tutorial will give you a basic overview on how to go about blocking unwanted countries from accessing your site. This can often help reduce traffic if your target audience is based in South Africa.

There is an online Country Block Generator, which allows you to select the countries that you want to block or allow. The country block generator can be found when you click on this link [http://ipinfodb.com/ip_country_block.php Country Block Generator]. The instructions are quite straight forward, once the code has been generated, simply upload the .htaccess file to the /httpdocs directory.

Please use this generator at your own risk.