setting up forum

[itsme220]

I want to setup a community forum to discuss general talk about lifestyle etc.

What forum software recommended?
I notice everyone is using vBulletin but it is not free.

I came across myBB they claims it is similar to vBulletin.

My Basic requirements are

1. I should able to run ads (Top banner, bottom banner, left and right banner)
2. First two levels, user should not able to create new threads. i.e Main page and one level below the main forum user should not create new thread.
3. Security. If some one posted any threatening, or abusive and police knocks down my site, I should able to provide IP address used to post that message.
4. Spam prevention.
5. Runs on Linux hosting.

I am not a programmer but don't mind installing pulg-in add in modules etc.

Anyone can recommend a forum application?

Thank you

 

[blurbloco]

Joomla + Kunena

 

[Gottaname]

lol Joomla has security issues left and right, experience from a system admin from hosting industry.

Try more mature forum software like vbulletin, simplemachines or invision.

 

[Windborn79]

You want free mybb one of the best already.

 

[Boltersdriveer]

Yep, definitely prefer MyBB over several other solutions out there such as phpBB(which looks a bit terrible, IMO).

 

[jacech8]

There are several free ones. Try them and read their reviews and see which one is best for you:

SMF
phpBB
MyBB
YaBB
punBB
TairoBB

 

[juliusm518]

My personal choice is phpBB.

 

[CoolRock]

Go for MyBB

 

[Passer]

Used to use phpBB. Free and good!

 

[stougard]

I would advise Usenet. There is even a sg.* hierarchy on Usenet. At least, Usenet is a free speech place (unlike most web forums).

I think Singnet has a NNTP server, else we find here and there some NNTP providers.