phpBB is a free, open source forum software. It can be downloaded for free via the
phpBB.com official website (click Download).
Pros
Open source, very easy to use, lots of features, good modding community, a wide range of styles, decent support
Cons
If you aim to install a lot of MODs and don't trust AutoMOD, it can take a while. Also, the permissions system, while EXTREMELY powerful, can take a LONG time to set up, depending on how many forums and groups you have, and can be very confusing if you make a mistake.
It is very easy to customize. If you know the basics of PHP you can pretty much dive right on in. If you dont, there are plenty of MODs either in development or already released that can add almost any functionality you need. If not, you can request it and someone is bound to take it on if it's a good idea. Also, you need your own web space WITH a MySQL database and PHP turned on (or you can search Google for a free phpBB hosting site, there are plenty).
ZB = Zetaboards? Well, I haven't used ZB, but from what I can tell, it's a forum hosting service that doesn't allow you to actually touch any of your files and has its own software anyway. tbh, it's all a matter of preference as far as features go. I would assume that phpBB has the better features and styles, but I am not 100% sure.
Anyway, if you need any help, my website is devoted to phpBB and we'll be glad to help you out and answer any questions you have.
😀 We also do services like phpBB installation and MOD installation for a small fee (either real or virtual forum cash, depending on which is best for you), and those services are half off until Christmas.
😀