Hey I've been wanting to start a forum for awhile now and I have really have no idea where to start. I've been using InvisionFree Forums, but I already knew what to do because all you did was have to sign up. I want to switch to Invision ------ Board because they have so many more features and mods. Money isn't really an issue. I just need to know what all I need to start a forum and how to do it. Can anyone with experience with IPB help me?
I've heard that too. I still have time to think about it. I just need to figure out how to start a forum first. I dont know anything about hosting and that stuff.
I have got a vb forum - It has more mods + features than IPB But acp is a bit tacky in VB - BUt besides that its ace If you want to have a look at mine the link is in my sigspace But I can help you in setting up ie Install the forum First of all - You need to decide on forum subject BEFORE you buy a legal version of IPB so you got an idea of what to base it on - Most are gfx but mines literally everything - Once done that you need to purchase a license - Once done that you need hosting - Actually you need hosting before the license including the domain etc After that its installing time DarkStar
If you can spare money, I would suggest getting a host like BlueHost Then you can get PhpBB and then upload it via FTP. I can help you if you contact me at [email protected] or AIM:aznddongman Xfire:aznddongman MSN:[email protected]
Well for the forums, it depends on what kind you want to do really. Graphics work better with IPB, other than that, vB FTW!
If your looking for hosting, I can host you on my dedicated server for REAL cheap. I'll handle all the installs and everything for you man. If you need reference on my performence, ask this guy. AIM: eVaCua7e
Do not use any services like InvisionFree... They suck plus they have adds and not much can be done with those forums. As for hosting you need a host with MYSQL And CPanel support. Many people here sell hosting for GR such as my site Deviant-Gaming.com. Next you need to obtain a forum software. If you cannot afford a forum software i suggest using SimpleMachine Forums not phpbb or whatever it is. Then you need to upload the files with an FTP and mod some files for the installation. Then decide a subject and if you want buy a domain name. Then organize your site however you want it.
I've never heard of Simple Machine Forums. Do they have a nice selection of mods? One thing I do want is a money system and a RPG hack. It's gonna be like a RP/GFX/Games Forum.
Hosting with me is $3/month. Unmetered B/W Unmetered Disc Space I will host up to 5 domains for you PHP MySQL everything you can think of i guess. Only thing is...I don't have a license of cPanel. So all panel stuff will have to be done through me. That will only bother you like the first day though. I do have a great team reachable around the clock at [email protected] We will also install any script you want. Proffesionally.
Whatever you do... DO NOT USE GODADDY HOSTING The hosting (non dedicated) has a mac/win connection limit of 17. If you are looking for a free, and very friendly hoster, I'd recommend jconserv.net
Or if you want to buy dreamhost.com hosting...decent...use the promo code 'FEARTHENOOB' you'll save $50.
I've never actually owned a forum or even made one but I know that you have to installthe forums into the site
Thanks man, you're a world of help... I'd suggest 1and1.com hosting. My friend and I use them, and they seem pretty reliable. There are cheaper ones out there, but you just need to do some looking (there is a pinned hosting topic, I'm not sure if it mentions paid hosts though.) For my step by step helper, I'll use 1and1.com as an example. 1. Find a hosting site (and preferably includes 1/2 domains in the hosting deal.) 2. Choose your plan. For this example, I chose Business. 3. Follow there steps, and in there it will let you choose your domain. 4. After all the paying, blah blah blah, you'll have all your server information. .. Hosting purchasing is done, Next would be to go purchase an IPB or vB license. Both have an installation read me in its purchase, so that will teach you how to install it. That's basically it.
Alright thanks for the info everyone. I'm gonna think about which one I should go with before I buy anything. Is there anything else I should know before hand?