can i obtain newsgroups on idnet as i can`t seem to get connected to forte agent
As far as I know, there are no usernet servers at IDnet. If you want newsgroups, you will need to subscribe to an extenal NSP.
As you're a Forte Agent user ( as am I ), have a look on their homepage for their own Premium News Services, where they have some special offers for advance upgraders to Agent 4.0. i.e. three months free.