Forums Software

[PointWolf]

Hey guys I am planning to start a forums site and need advice on what software to get I am considering buying a license for xenforo software which is currently $140, I have used xenforo before and really like there software they are currently only on beta but should have there stable release out soon. I then looked into IPB and found out the license was on $149, I could stretch to reach that.

In my eyes i really like the xenforo software but i need sum advice. I have used IPB before and it was ok i guess.

Thanks
Kevin Jamieson

PointWolf Reviewed by PointWolf on 9th Feb 2011. Forums Software Hey guys I am planning to start a forums site and need advice on what software to get I am considering buying a license for xenforo software which is currently $140, I have used xenforo before and really like there software they are currently only on beta but should have there stable release out soon. I then looked into IPB and found out the license was on $149, I could stretch to reach that. In my eyes i really like the xenforo software but i need sum advice. I have used IPB before and it Rating: 5

[SuicidalMedia]

You should go for IPB or vBulletin. XenForo is kinda, you know. New and it has bunch of unnecessary stuff. I don't know what kind of a forum you want to make, but XenForo wouldn't be the right pick. Its link structure isn't easily changed, it has too much things taken from Social Network sites, it has no functions like vBulletin and IPB have.

vBulletin is around 150$ I think, you have bunch of mods available for free on vBulletin.org , same goes for the templates, vB 3.x can be customized to look like you wish, while vB 4.x can be customized, but not like the 3.x , security of vBulletin is great, there were some exploits (XSS in first vB 4.x release, 3.8.4 & 3.8.5 username ASCII problem, 3.8.6 Faq.php Database info ) , but all of them are history.

Same goes for IPB, it has a big community, big resource of mods, skins, its security is great. It can be optimized, customized, and what not.

You wouldn't waste your money if you invested it in vB or IPB license.

[Mr Happy]

Agree with Jason. Considering they are more or less the same price XenForo is expensive when you think of the community of support, templates and mods you have for IPB and vB not to mention the fact it's still in Beta.

XenForo also have legal issues which still put the future of the script in doubt. Even if it's a small doubt it's still a consideration.

My problem with vBulletin is vB 3.8 was a great script but it's old now and updates will soon be stopped. As your buying a licence you expect constant support and updates which you won't get for the 3.8 series and as most people will agree the 4.x is just not near as good. As far as security goes just because they have patched current security issues doesn't mean their won't be more. vBulletin unlike IPB or PHPBB rush out updates and upgrades more resulting in less secure scripts. As vBulletin are very low on money this problem will only increase as licence holders expect regular new releases and updates.

This is why I'd suggest to buy an IPB Licence.

On another note be careful of people who suggest scripts just because it's the one they use or the one they are more familiar with which happens a lot here.

[Rocke]

go with IPB, there are too many vB forums already

[GeeZus]

There was me thinking you was the only one with a scene related blog for a moment then Rocke......

Anyhow, vBulletin is going through some changes big ones at that, probably in the wrong directions, personally i'd use IPB it's more stable, always improving, ( not downgrading like vB does )

If you're still not sure, just set up a test site with both installs, and just play around to see what you are more suitable with, at the end of day, it's YOU who will be doing stuff to it not the users.

[PointWolf]

Thanks guys!, I cant afford a VB license and don't really wont one as said above there is to many vb forums already, I am still differing but am in love with the ACP side of xenforo and i know it still in beta i am going to wait to see if they put a resale date for the main script. I personally like xenforo as it new and i love the ajax,Mods are not the whole idea of forums over time there will be more mods for xenforo but i am still unsure i will need to have a think about it

[PBI NetWork]

SMF Free http://www.simplemachines.org

Demo http://pornboxit.com/forums/index.php

use it for 5 years

[Avenger]

i also would suggest SMF cause its free and its not that bad at all also there you can make yoru own template and fidn already many templates there , not as much modifications as IPB or VB but still fiine

and



if you want IPB or VB just look for a hoster what allowes Nulled Scripts

[so19]

Mr Happy is right. Go with IPB. It's well worth the money, the constant updates and the tons of new modifications being made daily with their new marketplace.

I would recommend it to anyone.

[ushare]

SMF!!

I love its look!!