Phorum

Phorum project is an excellent choice for those who are searching for a reliable and efficient web-based message board written in PHP. Designed with high-availability and user-friendly features, the Phorum project offers a range of functionalities that cater to every webmaster's needs.

One of the most distinctive features of Phorum is its mailing list integration, which allows users to receive notifications and updates automatically. Moreover, the customization options available with Phorum make it an ideal addition to any website. The simple installation process further enhances the user experience.

While earlier versions of PHP were supported with Phorum, it is essential to note that as of Phorum 5.0, PHP 4.2.x or higher is required. This is due to key changes in that version that are beneficial to Phorum. To get PHP, individuals can refer to the PHP website, or their web provider may already have it installed.

Currently, the supported database for Phorum is MySQL, but it should be possible to port the database layer to other SQL databases. MySQL, which is available from MySQL AB, is an open-source database that can be downloaded, decompressed, and configured with ease.

Phorum is an open-source software licensed under the Phorum License, which is similar to the PHP License and Apache License. This means that it is free to use, but it is crucial to read the license before using it. Overall, Phorum is an excellent choice for those searching for a robust and efficient message board.