So, I have registered on this, hoping to be able to set up my own forum that people can only access off a certain address. Basically, I need an address that people can log on to because I play an online game which requires a forum, if you run your own guild (group of players) as it were.

So, could someone please explain to me how I set up a forum? Thanks in advance.

Hi,

There are many web hositng companies that offer a forum software preconfigured in their plans. It is easy to find a forum hosting plan which costs between $3 and $8 per month.

just get a cpanel host with fantastico, you can setup a forum from fantastico with 3 clicks.

yep this would be the easiest way..

if you need a hand in installing a forum just PM me. Basically you just need to download a forum script (highly recommend SMF < Google it!), Upload it through your FTP, create your MySQL and run the setup page normally url/install.php. Good luck!

fantastico is by far the easiest way it has several options for forums that you can install with just one click, make sure you have a free db for the forum to use.

John

Hi

like the above responses you can get hosts that offer you "application packs" that can auto install a forum for you.

However if you prefer to find a host and upload a forum yourself here is some links that may help you.

PHPBB - FREE forum software www.phpbb.com

VBulletin - Personally my favorite, this is the one used on this forum. Its paid software. - http://www.vbulletin.com

Look from your post I got that you need a domain name and forum hosting, right?

Lots of hosts offer both phpbb forum script preinstalled and a domain registration service, You should only structure your post with the budget and forms of support that you are looking for, while my recommendations go to www.onthespothosting.net, www.siteground.com, www.ahosting.biz.

By choosing a message board software that is preinstalled on your control panel or having Fantastico added to your control panel options are a fast and easy way for you and your users to update and maintain the boards.

Also would recommend customizing by the purchasing a template to fit the particular message board you are using to make it look more personalized.

Once you have decided on which method to use, remember to make regular backups and keep the software up-to-date if done manually to prevent unwanted attacks from hackers, and there's nothing worse than losing all of your data, especially when you have spend hours putting it together, customising and promoting it.

Dependent on your plans for the forum, will depend on whether you use Vbulletin or PHPBB or similair script. If you are not sure, google it or try www.hotscripts.com for some other forum scripts.

Good Luck with your project.

Andy

I also recommend PHPBB which is Free.
and VBulletin which is not free but really professional.