Don't think it's free - it's run on vBulletin.

*edit*

I do highly recommend it too, but don't forget sometimes the free options also suffice. Something like SMF or phpBB are great alternatives!

I would also like to know.

Kingsley

vBulletin sounds good. But anyone know of any good programmers/designers/ technical experts who could set it up for me and teach me how to use it?

Regards
Lazy B.

It running on vBulletin 3.8.5.

Tip: Open source code, and see this:

<meta name="generator" content="vBulletin 3.8.5" />

It has a very good backend. Kinda like wordpress of forums. It's aimed at big websites which require good management facilities. I wouldn't worry too much about the code.

You may need to get somebody in to integrate your paid membership system or there may be a plugin/extension available which could cut a lot of corners.

It's usually cheaper and sometimes better to tweak something than to build it from scratch - I tell all my clients that.

By the way, you will likely find more support with opensource stuff like SMF and phpBB because they are more widely available and aren't commercial. Big big support communities and lots of free plugins/themes. It's an ideal starting platform.

Of course, if you can afford it, get the best.

i use SMF and its pretty easy to use. Its super easy to install via fantastico deluxe ( and free ). Plus there are a TON of packages made for it. Think of packages doing for SMF as Plug ins would do for wordpress.

If you're that new, start with phpBB which is easy to use. Once you have a decent size membership you can always upgrade.

I believe that's what Allen did - it's been awhile, but I'm pretty sure I remember it wasn't always vBulletin.

Besides phpBB is free and stable and will allow you to have something in place sooner rather than later and without a huge learning curve. Pick the solution that will do what you need it to do with the skills you currently have. You can always change down the line.

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