On 6/9/2008 11:36 AM, Randolph Baden wrote:
Unfortunately, for a research project I really need to take these ToS
things into account. Even if I get around the SSH problem (I should
be able to...), something like the earlier suggestion of a super-cheap
Instead of SSH'ing into the box, would the TOS let you have something
running which would periodically poll a server for instructions (like a
zombie PC) ?
I'm not a lawyer, and I haven't carefully scrutinized the entire TOS,
but these look like the relevant portions, regarding NAT and servers:
http://www.comcast.net/terms/subscriber/
---8<---
2. Ip Addresses
Comcast will provide you with dynamic Internet protocol ("IP")
address(es) as a component of HSI [High Speed Internet], and these IP
address(es) can and do change over time. You will not alter, modify, or
tamper with dynamic IP address(es) assigned to you or any other
customer. You agree not to use a dynamic domain name server or DNS to
associate a host name with the dynamic IP address(es) for any commercial
purpose. You also agree not to use any software that provides for static
IP address(es) on or in conjunction with any computer(s) or network
device connected to HSI. If applicable, Comcast will release and/or
recover the dynamic IP address(es) when the Service or this Agreement is
disconnected, discontinued, or terminated.
---8<---
This isn't for commercial purposes (it's research), so dynamic DNS
should be kosher. And if you're NAT device is serving up non-routable
IP's via DHCP, one could argue those aren't really static IPs.
---8<---
Prohibited Uses of HSI. You agree not to use HSI for operation as an
Internet service provider, a server site for ftp, telnet, rlogin, e-mail
hosting, "Web hosting" or other similar applications, for any business
enterprise, or as an end-point on a non-Comcast local area network or
wide area network. You agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless
Comcast and its affiliates, suppliers, and agents against all claims and
expenses (including reasonable attorney fees) arising out of any breach
of this Section including, but not limited to, any claims based on or
arising out of any material violation of any applicable law.
---8<---
This wouldn't be "for any business enterprise" in this case, but I'm not
sure how to interpret the final phrase in that sentence. I *think* it
means you can't give away free internet to your neighbors via a public
WiFi hotspot connected to your cable modem, and similar setups.
-David
--
David Eisner
CALCE Center University of Maryland
