I'm in the process of reviewing Eric's recent question to many Listserv
owners of "Do you want to be part of the Listserv backbone?"  Looking
over the LSTSRV-L log Eric forwarded (I'm new to this list, so be
gentle),  I've come to the following conclusions:
 
To be part of the backbone you must
 
o  have a reliable, available Listserv.  (Ideally 24hr/day, 7 days a
   week +/- a few hours for service, backups...)
 
o  install updates to Listserv in a very timely fashion, or allow them
   to be installed automatically.
 
o  keep the supporting data files (e.g. BITEARN NODES) up to date.
 
o  provide Listserv with a modest amount of disk space for a few peer-
   related files.
 
The advantage to Bitnet/Earn/Netnorth is "better" Listserv service.
The advantage to the host is the usual fame and fortune associated with
   being a "good neighbor" to the other network members.
 
 
Is it really that simple, or have I overlooked some obscure snag?  I'm
still fairly ignorant of many of Listserv's inner workings and slicker
features, but it doesn't sound like I need to be much of a "guru" to
participate.