vbulletin? mysql and php skill

[hairycaterpillar]

What sort of depth of php and mysql knowledge is needed for using vBulletin succesfully?

[Chris]

Almost none.

If you have a really high traffic forum, server tweaks may be required for peak efficiency, but VB is really good about helping with that and its a one time thing.

Other than that, especially if you don't want to do any heavy modding, none.

[Cloughie]

Yep, it’s all pretty straight forward. Even some of the hacks are plugins wich require 0 php or mysql knowledge.

I have virtually zero knowledge of PHP/MySql and I have been running a vbulletin which I upgrade and hack regularly.

[hairycaterpillar]

Which hosting providers do you use? I've been using 1&1 and have found them good, but I'm not sure how good they'd be if I used vBulletin.

[Cloughie]

If you're just starting out, most should be fine.

But, as soon as you start to get any decent traffic, hosts will tend to shift you onto more expensive hosting programs and eventually a dedicated server. I run a dedicated with rackspace, but I have fairly busy forums.

you'll be good for a while on a normal hosting program and if it gets busy then it's all good :)