Some basic questions about startup please

[thefly1]

I am thinking of starting up a forum, as Im new to all this I was wondering if you guys could help me out with a few answers please.
1. If I purchase vbulletin, am I only paying for the program?
2. Do I have to get a seperate host?
3. If I have to get a seperate host I just run the vbulletin thru their site?
4. This would not be a money making exercise, just trying to start something for a hobby because a group of us are not happy with our current forum, and wish to make a "breakaway" forum.
So basicly what Im asking is are these the costs associated with starting a forum.
Thanks guys for your help

[Trevor Hannant]

1. You pay for the license to download and install vBulletin plus support (30 days ticket access for forums only, product lifetime ticket access for the Publishing Suite plus permanent forum support for both)

2. Yes. vBulletin requires a web server that includes PHP (minimum version 5.2) and MySQL (minimum 4.1.0) installed. As long as you choose a host that meets these requirements you will be able to install and run our software.

Most credible hosts now support both PHP and MySQL, and can run our software. We do not make official recommendations, but we do have a hosting review forum here:

http://www.vbulletin.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=11

You can also look at http://www.webhostingtalk.com, an independent review site. Sometimes you will find hosting specials there that aren't available elsewhere on the web.

3. You can set it up so that you only have vBulletin there or that it's part of a site - it's up to you and your wants/needs

4. License: $195 or $285 depending on what you choose. You will also have the domain and the hosting costs which can vary widely depending on what you go for.

[thefly1]

Excellent and thanks for your help, will def be going for it now, Thanks again