On January 31, 2012 I upgraded the message board to vBulletin 4.1.10. My last upgrading experience was really negative. I wrote about it. This time around, the software was improved dramatically. I had absolutely no problem and the upgrading process lasted 5 minutes or so!

I decided to upgrade to the latest version of vBulletin for two reasons. One, I wanted to implement SkimLinks on my forums. Two, I wanted to re-implement the Facebook Connect (it was no longer working in 4.0.7).

SkimLinks is a monetizing program (different from Google AdSense). SkimLinks analyzes page content to recognize product references and deliver in-text affiliate links, and show product and price comparison information, all in real-time.

The Facebook Connect feature is a convenient way to link my forums to Facebook. For example, if I post something I believe deserves to be shared on Facebook, I just check-mark Publish to Facebook (bottom of the message editor). I can also go directly to my Facebook home page by clicking my Facebook avatar (in the top navigation bar).

Every member of these forums can enable the Facebook Connect feature. Just click the corresponding button in the top navigation bar. You need to click Allow in the ensuing dialog box. Then, you link your Facebook account, by check-marking the features you want to be displayed (e.g. avatar, location, etc.) And, if you post something you want to share on your Facebook, just check the Publish to Facebook box.

Best of luck!

Ion Saliu