Do you use an off-campus third-party email address? Do you send email through an email program like Outlook or Thunderbird?
A security change may affect your ability to send email if you're using the AirUC or RezNet wireless networks.
On 1 September 2009, IT will begin blocking off-campus SMTP traffic on port 25 on both the AirUC and RezNet wireless networks. IT currently blocks port 25 on the AirUC-Secure, Edupass, and Eduroam wireless networks.
What is "Port 25 blocking"?
A port is a data connection between computers. Port 25 is typically used to send messages between an email client and email server. Many email clients like Thunderbird and Outlook are configured to use port 25 by default. Viruses and spammers exploit this to send out spam and infected messages. Blocking port 25 helps stop viruses from spreading and controls the amount of spam.
How does this affect me?
This change may affect you if you use a third-party off-campus email service that uses port 25.. If so, you should contact your third-party email provider to obtain an alternate port number.The change may also affect you if you have not upgraded your email client to use more secure settings.
This change will NOT affect you if you use a web browser to access your third-party email. It will also not affect you if you use UofC Webmail or on-campus email. On-campus users may continue to use port 25 for connecting directly to the UofC mail servers. However it is recommended all users upgrade to the more secure settings.
For UofC email, you should change your campus Outgoing Server (SMTP) settings to SSL and port 465 and your Incoming Mail (IMAP) to SSL and port 993. For step-by-step instructions on how to do this, see the Email Clients webpage.
Why is the UofC doing this?
Many internet service providers like Shaw and Telus and third-party email services like Gmail have been blocking port 25 for some time now. Industry Canada recommends that all internet service providers like the UofC do this as part of a national effort to control email spam and viruses.