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Binkp Fidonet Mail
**Binkp** is a protocol designed to facilitate the exchange of Fidonet mail packets over TCP/IP networks, utilizing port 24554. Originally developed to modernize the transfer of echomail and netmail across Fidonet nodes, Binkp allows traditional store-and-forward bulletin board systems to communicate reliably over the Internet, rather than legacy dial-up methods..
Introduction
Binkp (Binary Internet Kit Protocol) is a specialized protocol enabling Fidonet-compatible mailers and bulletin board systems (BBS) to transfer messages and files over modern TCP/IP networks. Fidonet is an old but still operational global network for BBSs, traditionally reliant on dial-up. Binkp modernizes this by replacing modem-based connections with more reliable and faster Internet-based communication.
Protocol Design
Operating primarily over port 24554, Binkp uses a simple binary-based protocol to negotiate sessions, authenticate peers, and transfer mail bundles. Both TCP and UDP modes can be available, but TCP is most commonly employed due to its reliability in packet delivery. Binkp supports error checking, compression, and multi-packet transfer routines that efficiently handle large mail bundles.
Deployment Scenarios
Today's implementations use Binkp as the backbone for links among Fidonet nodes spread worldwide. This allows hobbyists, retro communities, and certain small-scale networks to maintain communication without traditional phone lines. Clients typically run as dedicated mailers integrated within BBS software or standalone mailer packages.