NodeBB is a free mobile first discussion platform with instant notifications. It comes with analytics dashboard, real time chat, built in localization support along with plugins and themes to enhance it even more.
Before we get started, make sure you sign up for a new account through our link and get your $10 credit which is equal to two months of free service on the 1GB plan!
Check your system and make sure you have node installed.
node --version
If it’s not on your system, you can follow the Install Node And Verify Version On Ubuntu guide. Once you are ready, proceed to the next page.
Now for the NodeBB installation
cd ~ sudo apt install -y git build-essential git clone -b v1.7.x GitHub - NodeBB/NodeBB: Node.js based forum software built for the modern web $HOME/nodebb cd nodebb npm install --production
Tip: you can always check for the latest release but going to Releases · NodeBB/NodeBB · GitHub – as of this post it is v1.7.3 so we use v1.7.x in the command above
Before you proceed to the next step, make sure you have MongoDB. You can follow the Install MongoDB on Ubuntu guide if it’s not installed.
Now to get the database ready for NodeBB, open terminal and type the following
mongo use nodebb db.createUser( { user: " nodebb ", pwd: " nodebbpwd ", roles: [ “readWrite” ] } ) exit
NOTE: you should replace nodebb and nodebbpwd with your own!!
Start the NodeBB web installer
npm start
Open the web browser and visit http://www.devporto.com:4567
You will need to replace www.deporto.com with your domain name or IP address.
Fill out all the details under the Create an Administrator account section
For the Configure your database section, you will need to make the following changes:
Database type: MongoDB
MongoDB username: nodebb
Password of your MongoDB database: nodebbpwd
Which database to use: nodebb
Note: MongoDB username and password along with database name should match what you previously setup.
When you are ready, click Install NodeBB
If everything goes smoothly, you will see Congratulations! Your NodeBB has been set-up.
At this point, click Launch NodeBB and have fun!
If you are stuck at any point or want to see the entire process, here’s the video for your viewing pleasure
Remember you can follow along for free. Just sign up for a new account through our link and get your $10 credit which is equal to two months of free service on the 1GB plan!
Tested with Ubuntu 14.04, MongoDB 3.2.6, node 4.4.4 and NodeBB 1.0.3