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Q. What is a bot?
A. A bot is simply a name for a script or bit of programming code that automates some task that would otherwise need to be done manually. Bots are also often referred to as spiders, robots and probably a hundred other names as well.
Q. What is an anonymous bot?
A. Often an owner of a bot doesn't want anybody to know that the bot belongs to them. Not that they are doing anything illegal per say, but sometimes it just works out better if the bot is running elsewhere other than on their server. We offer proxy domain registration and anonymous hosting for any bots that require it. The only way anybody will ever know that the bot is yours is if we get a court order demanding the release the information. So far, we've never had this happen.
Q. Another developer told me that such and such is impossible, can you do it?
A. We'd sure like a crack at it. Much of our business comes from clients that have been turned away by other programming companies. The general rule is that if you can do it, a bot can too.
Q. Do you build or host any bots that are illegal?
A. We will never knowingly build or host any bot that is obviously illegal. However we assume that the bot you ask us to build will be used legally and ethically and that you have obtained any necessary permissions to use the bot. We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who cannot furnish proof of permission to use a bot in any manner that might be considered illegal. (This usually means a written letter from the data source that the bot will be run against.)
Q. What language will my bot be written in?
A. We use many different languages. Most commonly web bots are written in PHP, Window bots in C++ or VB, *nix bots with shell scripting. However we can write them in just about any language that is suitable for the task. We will determine what language to use on a case by case basis. If for some reason you need the bot written in a language other than what we have chosen, there may be an additional fee.
Q. How fast can you have my bot ready?
A. Depends on the bot you order. We have some bots done in hours. Others take months to build. We will give you an idea of delivery time with your preliminary estimate.
Q. Can I host my own bot?
A. As long as you have the necessary support on your computer or server to allow the bot to run, yes.
Q. Can I host a regular website with you?
A. Yes. We offer exceptional hosting plans for most types of websites. See the services page for more info.
Q. If the bot breaks will you fix it for free?
A. Not usually. When a bot breaks it is often because the datasource that the bot was running against changed. We have no control over any 3rd party data and if/when changes happen we cannot be held responsible for it. However if you know that your data source will change frequently, we offer substantial savings through our maintenance plans. See services page for details.
Q. My bot's datasource is behind a secure login/.htaccess. Is that a problems?
A. No. Our bots can handle secure logins, cookies, .htaccess files, etc... so long as you provide us with a correct login/password.
Q. Can you automate FTP tasks?
A. No problem at all. Just provide us with the server login/password.
Q. Do you take checks?
A. Yes, though we will not turn over any code till final payment clears. We will also accept payment from online payment services like paypal.com, etc. under special circumstances. However, generally we like to be paid with either a Mastercard or Visa.
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