How to create a test forum?

[Alfa1]

I want to create a test forum in order to be able to test add ons and template edits out, before bringing them to a live forum.

What is the best way to accomplish this?

- Is it wise to run a separate database for the test forum?
- Do I need to do a new install in the test folder?

[NathanLedet]

I typically set up a separate database and a separate folder. As far as I am aware, your license allows you to run more than one instance of the software, as long as it's being used on the same domain name...

for instance, this is my live forum:

mysite.com/forum

and this is my test forum:

mysite.com/testforum


I would recommend setting up a separate folder and database.

Yes, you would probably need to do a set up in your test folder as well...but think of it this way, the more times you run the installation, the easier it becomes. The first forum I ever set up took me 5 hours, because I had no idea what I was doing...I've installed so many since then and learned all the techniques, now it takes me less than 15 minutes. The more you do it, the more comfortable you become with it. Good luck with everything :D

[Loco.M]

you'll want to pass protect that folder as well ;)

[Alfa1]

OK, I've done that. Now how do I import the database?

I see that normally telnet/SSH are the preferred option. But since I need to import the database from within the same server/local_host, I assume there is an easier option.

[DelphiVillage]

I typically set up a separate database and a separate folder. As far as I am aware, your license allows you to run more than one instance of the software, as long as it's being used on the same domain name...

for instance, this is my live forum:

mysite.com/forum

and this is my test forum:

mysite.com/testforum


I would recommend setting up a separate folder and database.

Yes, you would probably need to do a set up in your test folder as well...but think of it this way, the more times you run the installation, the easier it becomes. The first forum I ever set up took me 5 hours, because I had no idea what I was doing...I've installed so many since then and learned all the techniques, now it takes me less than 15 minutes. The more you do it, the more comfortable you become with it. Good luck with everything :D

Wrong 1 licence 1 public (live) installation and additional you are allowed to have a password protected testinstallation where only the licence owner has access and you have to call it /testvb

[NathanLedet]

Wrong 1 licence 1 public (live) installation and additional you are allowed to have a password protected testinstallation where only the licence owner has access and you have to call it /testvb

noted, Thanks.

[Alfa1]

OK, I've done that. Now how do I import the database?

I see that normally telnet/SSH are the preferred option. But since I need to import the database from within the same server/local_host, I assume there is an easier option.

This is an urgent question. I need to know this as I want to import my database to a test forum as a trial before I do this on my live board. My board is currently broken and I need to fix it.

Please help.

[NathanLedet]

Please read this here:

http://www.vbulletin.com/forum/showpost.php?p=602709&postcount=7

It is step by step documentation on backup and restoring your database using SSH, which is definitely the most recommended way.

[Alfa1]

I have downloaded putty and tried it, but I can't make any sense of what to do with it.

[aacircle]

I would like to create a test forum on a separate domain name. This other domain name will be password protected so the public cannot see it. Is this allowed?

Thank you.

[Steve Machol]

Yes, the license agreement allows you to set up a test board:

"If you have a valid license, you may set up an additional test forum in order to test code, template and database modifications. To make this clear to us and our license verification procedures, place it in a directory called 'testvb' and be sure to password protect it. It must not be accessible by the general public."

[aacircle]

Ok, so it's also ok to place it on another domain? Cheers.