So, proboards is super hard for me to understand, but I don't want to mess with cpanel or anything like that, which means we might have to start over, but I can go back to the original Chatting Time branding but leave the opening date as September 28, 2025. Any suggestions?
Looking for Free phpbb hosting
- Thread starter Ashley
- Start date
Forumotion is the only free phpBB hosting that I can think of off the top of my head. Tapatalk is also phpBB, but I wouldn't go with Tapatalk. It's a shame most of the phpBB hosting was shut down. There's tons of SMF free hosting online, they're all owned by the same guy too lol. You could also get a co admin to help install the files and take care of updates and such.
Well we found a place https://chattingtimeforum.createaforum.com/index.php we will let you know when we're back up and running. If Prophpbb we're still open they would have been my first choice
Hey there
ProBoards can be a bit of a maze, especially if you’re trying to customize things without diving into code or cPanel. If it’s causing more stress than joy, starting fresh with the original Chatting Time branding sounds like a smart move — especially if that name already has some recognition or nostalgia behind it.
Keeping the September 28, 2025 opening date is a great idea too. It gives you a clear goal without rushing the setup, and you can treat it as a soft launch or community preview if needed.
Here are a few suggestions that might help:
Whatever you decide, rooting for you! Forums thrive when the creator is passionate — and it’s clear you care deeply about making Chatting Time a welcoming space. Let us know how it goes or if you need a second pair of eyes on anything.
ProBoards can be a bit of a maze, especially if you’re trying to customize things without diving into code or cPanel. If it’s causing more stress than joy, starting fresh with the original Chatting Time branding sounds like a smart move — especially if that name already has some recognition or nostalgia behind it.
Keeping the September 28, 2025 opening date is a great idea too. It gives you a clear goal without rushing the setup, and you can treat it as a soft launch or community preview if needed.
Here are a few suggestions that might help:
- Platform alternatives: If ProBoards isn’t clicking and cPanel is off the table, you might want to explore something like Forumotion, Tapatalk, or even a hosted WordPress + bbPress combo. They’re easier to manage and still give you room to grow.
- Lean into branding: Since you’re going back to Chatting Time, maybe refresh the logo or banner to give it a “new chapter” feel. A simple tagline like “Where conversations come alive — reopening Sept 28” could help build excitement.
- Build in public: Share updates with potential members as you rebuild. People love watching a community take shape and it might even attract early contributors who want to help.
- Don’t go it alone: If you’re stuck on setup or design, don’t hesitate to ask for help here or in other forum-building communities. There’s always someone who’s been through it and can offer a shortcut or solution.
Whatever you decide, rooting for you! Forums thrive when the creator is passionate — and it’s clear you care deeply about making Chatting Time a welcoming space. Let us know how it goes or if you need a second pair of eyes on anything.
We did find a new home, check out the post above yours. And while I agree that phpbb is ancient compared to more modern software, it's the only one I feel comfortable with doing most tasks myself
I seen the website it looks ok time for a custom url 🙂 good luck
Well, unless there's free options around, I don't have that kind of money. Also (and I've been saying that for a decade now) I'm not looking to be the next Reddit or The Admin Zone. All I'm after is a small to medium size community. Ot endless posts every 10 seconds, if even only a handful of people are active, then I'm happy
You're not kidding.... I had a member forget their login details and I was ready to rip my hair out trying to find the individual members area so I could get the poor member their login credentials. That was the last straw for me. As for Chatting Time being nostalgic or having a history behind it I couldn't agree more. Chatting Time was one of my first ever and more successful forums which is why I wanted to go back to it instead of keeping the name Chatting Time 2.
ETA I love your posting we could use a content poster if you're interested
In support for a new community, MicroLikes offers you a free hosting account. (maybe just a small link on the footer back to MicroLikes would be enough)
Let me know 🙂
Thanks for the offer but I think we've settled down for the most part.
We could use a content poster. I love your writing and I think you'd be perfect for the role
Flick me a message we can discuss this
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