1. Download and Execute the installer

The WDYLLC SlipStream Web Accelerator installer is available on the web at http://wdyllc.com/support/SlipStream-about.html. Note that you must provide your valid account username and password, and that you must be authorized to use WDY Enterprises' national dialup service to download the SlipStream client.

Your download of the SlipStream client is what activates your account's ability to use the Web Acceleration service. If your account does not download the SlipStream client directly (ie: if you get it from a friend), your account will not be able to use the SlipStream client.

2. License Agreement

WDY Enterprises didn't write this software. It's licensed software that you need to agree to specific terms to use.

BE AWARE

To install the software, you have to accept the terms of the agreement.

3. Set File Location

You can set this to be anyplace you have sufficient disk space, but we recommend that you use the defaults.

There will be a window full of installation notices that scroll by fairly quickly. Don't interupt the install process.

4. Close the installer

The installer's role is done. There are only a couple of things left to do.

5. Reboot Required

The system requires a reboot to recognize the Slipstream Web Accelerator software, at least on Windows XP. It won't work correctly until you reboot.

6. After a Reboot... possible notices

If you use Mozilla Firefox (or certain other programs), the SlipStream engine may ask you if you want to install support for that program. This is a good idea to do, if you want to take advantage of Slipstream in those programs.

7. Entering your authentication credentials

The first time you use the Slipstream Web Accelerator, you'll need to enter your dialup username ("USERNAME@gcfn.org" format) and password.

8. Expect one of these errors!

Unless you're connected to WDY Enterprises' national dialup service, you'll get an error stating that the connection was refused. The accelerator service only works when you're online. This error, while a little misleading, is expected and normal in this circumstance.

Starting the Accelerator

The Slipstream Web Accelerator does not start entirely by itself. Right click on the WebAccelerator icon (second from the left, with the red X in it in the image) and go to "Start WDYLLC WebAccelerator".

Stopping the Accelerator

To stop the accelerator, right click on the WebAccelerator icon (second from the left in the image) and go to "Stop WDYLLC WebAccelerator".

Changing the Accelerator's Behavior

You can configure the accelerator by right clicking on the WebAccelerator icon (second from left in the image) and going to "Settings".

Acceleration and Image Quality

Essentially, there's a trade-off to be had between the acceleration of your Internet connection and the quality of the images you see. To get the fastest performance, go for higher acceleration and low image quality; if the accelerated pictures are too grainy for you, go for less acceleration and higher image quality.

Changing your Authentication data

If you should change your password (or if your username is changed), you can always update your WebAccelerator settings on the "Connection" tab. You probably want to stay away from the "Advanced" features -- be aware that you can get most web browsers to work with the Web Accelerator (for non Netscape/Mozilla Firefox/Internet Explorer/Safari browsers) by setting your browser to use a proxy at 127.0.0.1 port 5400.a

Other Kinds of Acceleration

The SlipStream Web Accelerator can accelerate protocols and content other than just web pages and pictures. You can activate these features at your discretion.

You probably want to avoid using the e-mail acceleration features if you use WDY Enterprises for your e-mail. Our heavy use of encryption and our non-standard traffic ports tend to prevent the e-mail acceleration features from being particularly effective.

This Web Accelerator works only with WDY Enterprises' national dialup service. If you have a broadband connection or dial to other Internet Service Providers, it can actually SLOW DOWN your network performance.