AFD = Automatic File Distribution. You have subscribed to the files(s) you specified in the AFD command. Any time that file (or files, in your case) is updated, LISTSERV will send you a copy. In your case, you've subscribed to release notes for LISTSERV, so when Eric stores V18B RELNOTES (for instance) in the LINFO file archives, you will automatically get a copy...and V18C RELNOTES, V19A RELNOTES, etc., as they are stored. The listserver has advised you to set a password so no one can tamper with your AFD and/or FUI (File Update Information) subscriptions by sending forged mail or via some other hack attack. You don't have to do this if you don't want to. It's probably a good idea to do so, but just be sure you remember the password. :) FUI is essentially the same concept as AFD, except that FUI causes LISTSERV to send a notice that the file has been updated rather than sending you the file itself. Nathan