Setting a new forum up

[Vuk]

Hey,
I decided that I wanted to set a new forum up for a gaming community, but am not sure what to do. I do a lot of base programing, but networking is beyond me, lol.
I was told that PHPBB is the way to go and dowloaded it, but need a host that can use it now. Is there an easier way to make a forum? I don't need it as fancy as the .ORG, but would like it snazzy, lol.
What I really want to know is if there is a FREE way to make an accessible and sweet little forum rig with a lot of space?

Thanks,
Vuk

[TosaInu]

Hello Vuk,

http://invisionfree.com/
http://www.makeforum.org/home.php
http://www.createforum.com/

[Kekvit Irae]

Personally, I prefer Simple Machines. Easy to use, and a lot of tools to work with as admin.

http://www.simplemachines.org/

[pevergreen]

After using a number of free ones, I would recommend simplemachines. A lot easier.

[Roman_Man#3]

Does SMF provide hosting themselves?

[TosaInu]

Does SMF provide hosting themselves?

I recall they did, but last time I checked they were just mentioning downloading the script and I couldn't find a hosting option.

http://www.simplemachines.org/

http://www.simplemachines.org/community/

I'ld suggest to try a few boards first, check for mods/hacks/add-ons/(community)support and toy around in the settings/admin control panel. All products allow posting posts, polls and have a PM system, but there are differences.

Security and safety is pretty important, you probably wouldn't want to wake up to see your whole forum erased by a malicious script (both the software and the data). Being able to make a backup of the data and store that on your own PC is important too. We've used EZboard in the past (not org) and while we never lost anything (that company may have a good backup policy), it was discomforting to know that years of posts may get lost.

Nothing is forever, but it's probably not good to cut off your upgrade path either. A forum may serve your needs now, but what about two years? Do you start from scratch again or do you want to transfer your existing users and posts to a new home? Many boards can be upgraded or converted/imported to another brand, but not all. There may well be changes for the better or worse, but sticking to a very small fish now, will make it less likely that you can transfer it later (check whether big fish are able to import it, that often also means you need the database).

[Vuk]

Thanks all, this is very helpfull!

[UltraWar]

If you need hosting, just send me a message and I'll do my best to supply you with the space you require for the community you are planning to set up.