how do I go about starting up a forum like those powered by phpBB?

It should be free.

Do I need a server that's running the whole time in order for these kind of forum to keep on running forever?

all you need to run a forum some webspace and most hosting companys have preinstalled scripts (your forum) which can be set up by clicking on the scripts icon in cpanel

hope that helps
paul

just buy a shared account and set up the forum script, very ez. i've installed invisions many time

Some of web hosts have preinstalled scripts ready for you to use in their C-panel.

If you find one that doesn't, make sure your web host is running PHP and MySQL at least. Then you can download the forum scripts free with installation instruction.

Good Luck!

You can look into a dedicated server once your community has reached a certain point with active members. A shared hosting account should be more than enough as of now. Remember to backup your forum db on a monthly basis!

I agree, for a start-up forum, you may purchase a shared hosting plan that has around 100MB disk space and at least 15GB bandwidth. That would be enough for you for a couple of months until you build a mid-size community.

Backing up forum DB is the most critical point as talkwebhosts said. If your host suddenly disappears, you won't lose months of work done to form that community and members...

Hi,

Setting up a forum is quite easy; all you require is about 100MB of disk space bandwidth and a hosting provider.

Most hosting providers provide pre-installed script archives which allow you to easily setup a forum. Popular control panels which i know provide a forum are Plesk and CPanel

Good Luck

All you need is any shared account from any host (something like 100mb space and 10gb bandwidth).

phpbb is one of the most popular pre-installed scripts or you can ask for help from the support dept. of your hosting company.

Good Luck!

These days most of the hosts come with free one click install feature to 3-4 webhosting boards. You can try them and choose the one that is best for you!

Subodh

I have installed 2 vbulletin forums, they're paid, but more than worth the money. Vbulletin is the best forum software IMHO if you are serious about building a killer forum

Just be sure to ask your potential host whether or not phpBB is preinstalled/configured for you to use immediately.

Always get things in writing :-)