phpBB software

[thekitchendesigner]

Just wondering how simple it is to set up a forum using phpBB.com?

I would like to start a forum solely for kitchen designers, to exchange design ideas, techniques, information etc etc as there is nothing at the moment.

I like the look of the phpBB.com website - do i simply download and start using??? (obviously buy a domain name to use with it)

 

[mtw]

Hi Mark,

I haven't done it for a while now, but my experience with setting up bulletin boards has always been pretty positive - as long as you choose an established and well-supported (community-wise) one. I think phpBB falls into that category.

It's generally just a matter of downloading, unpacking and uploading to your web server. Follow the set-up instructions to change any necessary file paths for your particular web server and you should be laughing. Most have an install page that lets you specify any settings you need through a nice browser interface.

If you run into trouble no doubt someone here (even me, possibly) could advise or even assist.

Let us know how you get on...

Cheers
Mark

 

[PatrickH]

Hello Mark
phpBB is very easy to set up. There is a lively online community as well, and documentation.
The work is in maintaining it!
regards
Patrick

 

[mattk]

You might even find that your hosting company offers a "one click" installation, I know mine does. You simply specify the folder name, click "Install" and within a minute or so it's done!

You will however spend many hours downloading and installing different skins in order to get your forum looking beautiful

 

[mtw]

You might even find that your hosting company offers a "one click" installation, I know mine does. You simply specify the folder name, click "Install" and within a minute or so it's done!

It's a good point. My host also offers this. I would offer a word of caution though; they don't always have the most up-to-date version available. If you're capable of doing a clean install yourself, I would recommend it. This way you'll have the latest and be able to manage upgrades more easily as they are released.

However, if you're not too worried about the latest version, a host's install script does make it nice and easy!

Cheers
Mark

 

[dan_moore]

Yes, phpBB is easy to set up!

The tough bit is fighting all the spam when it becomes successful enough to attract unwanted attention...

Dan

 

[Ravenfire]

Another word of caution with phpBB - you must make sure you have the most up to date version if possible as I frequently see it hacked. Make sure you remove all install files that shouldnt be there. Its very easy to use if you just want to use the basic forum but I have to say its harder than others if you want to add on modifications to it.

 

[thekitchendesigner]

Hi all, thanks for your replies.

My web designer decided to set it up for me without me knowing, and i'm delighted with the result i must say!

Have a look:

http://thekitchendesigner.com/forum/index.php

 

[mtw]

And a nice job he's done too!

 

[thekitchendesigner]

why thank you! just got to get a good url for it now!

 

[Ravenfire]

Looks good