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The Sydney Unix Network
(SUN-III)
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The Sydney Unix Network is a software package that can be used to
build local or wide area networks of Unix based systems. These
systems may then exchange electronic mail, data files, data base
queries or any binary information.
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The package can make use of any transmission medium that provides
a virtual circuit between pairs of systems. It is currently
operating over fixed lines, leased lines, Ethernet, CSIRONET and AUSTPAC.
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is not constrained to any particular network
topology. It is a store and forward system allowing any
interconnection structure. 
The system does not require dedicated
links, a connection can be made on demand or at regular times of
the day. 
This feature allows
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to make use of dial-up lines or
other, carrier, networks such as AUSTPAC or CSIRONET.
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Electronic mail and file transfer facilities are provided above
the basic message delivery system. This allows a data file or
mail item to be sent to a particular user at a particular host
anywhere on the network.
The message delivery system also allows messages to be broadcast
or multicast very efficiently with the minimum number of message
copies travelling over the shortest paths.
Gateway programs exist which allow electronic mail and file transfers
to non-UNIX computer systems such as VAX/VMS, CSIRONET etc., as well
as to UNIX systems using the UUCP software.
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The current version of the system is in use on over 300 host
machines around Australia.
This network, known as the Australian
Computer Science Network (Acsnet) connects educational and
research groups as well as various industry and commercial
users.
Acsnet has established gateways to foreign networks including
USENET, CSNET and the ARPANET in the USA, and the European,
Japanese and New Zealand networks.
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The source code for
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is available to commercial users wishing to
join Acsnet or who want to set up private networks of Unix systems.
Installation and configuration of the system is also available if desired.
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At present, only international messages attract charges, and
only on a cost recovery basis.
These charges are significantly less than international Telex.
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Licensing, technical and other enquiries on any aspect of this
software should be directed to:
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Softway Pty Ltd
PO Box 305
Strawberry Hills NSW 2012

(02) 698 2322  \-  +61 2 698 2322
