Free SMF Forum Hosting

[Dan]

I have used SMF for one of my sites before, and would recommend it.

Advantages:

- Not used as much as PHPBB, so less likely to get hacked etc.
- Doesn't look as "free" as PHPBB software.
- Plenty of support on the support forums.
- Professional feel, and fairly SEO'd.

Disadvantages

- Copyright link at the bottom is fairly annoying - "© 2001-2005, Lewis Media" would suggest the site belongs to Lewis Media!
- Not as popular as PHPBB so not as many mods around, however development is increasing all of the time.
- Not supported as much as other scripts so integration with other CMS scripts etc. is hard - although again this is increasing all of the time.

It is definately the best "full" forum free package out there, however vBulletin is the best overall.

Of course, selecting a forum is dependant on purpose - there are many ones out there that may be better depending on requirements.

[Master User]

Originally Posted by SMF For Free

VBulletin is the best paid software but can't do a forum host unless I buy a license for each forum. SMF for me is the best free forum software.

You can customize the default theme with style sheets and headers and footers.

If you are looking for full customized theme boards you can try out my other service at http://www.createmybb.com

I beg to differ, i think phpBB2 is the best free software, my mate runs SMF and he always has security issues with it, and I have never a anyone hack mine!

[DevilsCharm]

Ahh, I get it, it's one of those things that gives you a subdomain and such. Well, I guess it would be good for someone who doesn't want to spend any money.