Fixing Common vBulletin Installation Errors

Before you start

You need a database, which is an organised store of information, plus a database user and password. Make them in your control panel under MySQL Databases. Upload the vBulletin files to your site folder first. vBulletin is paid software, so use the copy from your own licence.

Error 1: Cannot connect to the database

The message says it cannot connect, or access is denied.

1. Open includes/config.php in the File Manager.
2. Check the database name, user name and password. Control panels often add a prefix, like account_dbname.
3. Check the server name. It is usually localhost.
4. Make sure the user was added to the database with all privileges.
5. Save the file and try again.

Error 2: Missing or wrong config.php

vBulletin ships with a sample file, config.php.new. Copy it and rename the copy to config.php. Then fill in your database details.

Error 3: PHP version or extension problems

PHP is the language vBulletin is written in. Each vBulletin release needs certain PHP versions and extensions. Extensions are add-on parts, like mysqli, gd and curl.

1. Open Select PHP Version or MultiPHP Manager in your control panel.
2. Pick a PHP version listed as supported by your vBulletin release.
3. Turn on the extensions that the installer says are missing.

Error 4: Blank white page

A blank page often means a PHP error is hidden. Check the file called error_log in your site folder. It tells you what went wrong. A wrong PHP version is a common cause.

Error 5: Permission errors

Some folders must be writable so the forum can save files. Right-click the folder in File Manager and choose Change Permissions. Ask vBulletin's guide which folders need this. Folders normally use 755. Do not use 777 unless the guide says so.

Error 6: Installer stops or times out

Large steps can run out of time. Run the installer again. If it keeps stopping, ask Hostvento support to check the PHP time limit.

Warning: If you reinstall on a database that already holds a forum, you can lose posts. Back up the database first.

Quick recap

• Create the database and user before installing.
• Rename config.php.new to config.php and fill in the details.
• Use a supported PHP version and turn on needed extensions.
• Check error_log for blank pages.
• Back up before reinstalling.