I would say it isn't normal that you have to allow ashMaiSv.exe in the Process memory control panel. Outpost Pro should only require ashMaiSv.exe to be a trusted application, that should be all that is required for ashMaiSv.exe to work.
Having looked at the Process memory control panel on my Outpost Pro settings, there is no entry for ashMaiSv.exe and there shouldn't be a need for it modify other applications memory, which is the purpose of this panel.
What is your operating system ?
I assume that your NNTP server requires you to logon which is fairly normal (unless it is your ISP news that can use your internet logon information) and if so it should be set-up in the OE Tools, Accounts, News, Properties, Server.