Attachment Storage Type 

vBulletin allows you the choice of storing attachments in either your database or in your file system. You are able to change your storage method at any time by navigating to Attachments->Attachment Storage Type.

There are several factors you need to consider before choosing which method you wish to use. By default, vBulletin stores attachments in the database since every server that supports vBulletin will work with this method. Not every server will be able to store attachments in the file system.

Storing in Database:

• Pro
  • Backing up your database, also backs up your attachments
  • Does not consume any of your file system storage limits (unless mysql storage counts)
• Con
  • Can increase server load on large forums

Storing in File system:

• Pro
  • Better performance for large forums
  • Easier to backup your database
• Con
  • Does not work if SAFE MODE is enabled on your server.
  • Need to backup attachments separately from database
  • Consumes space on your file system

User Contributed Notes: Attachment Storage Type	Add a Comment
Brad <brad at synergy-core dot net>	Apr 20th '05, 12:03pm
If you store attachments in the database and your attachment table is larger then 200 mb is may be time to explore storing the attachments in the file system. Attachments as files seems to be the faster option of the two when you are dealing with a large number of attachemnts.
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