Registering
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Registering enables a user to maintain a consistent identity while posting and keep track of what they have read, no matter where they are working from or what computer they are using. They will be able to fill out a personal Profile and gain access to the built-in Personal Message system. They will also be able to subscribe to e-mail notifications, monitor their forum activity and more.
Certain forums may choose to restrict access to the full forum or selected areas, allowing only registered members to view the content. A guest should register when they wish to participate in forum discussions, visit a forum frequently, and access members-only areas and benefits.
Members will have access to profile and notification options that are unavailable to guests, although these options may vary, depending on the site has been configured by the forum administrator. Members can also be placed in specific member groups, made moderators or administrators, given other special permissions and gain access to members-only areas. Being able to send personal messages, receive forum emails, and post new polls and topics are some additional items that may be available to registered members.
Most forums require a guest to accept a Registration Agreement and often a Privacy Policy before any registration process can begin. By checking the option I Agree, a guest consents to comply with the agreement and acknowledges the privacy policy for the site. Some forums may also incorporate a minimum age into the agreement process.
Upon arrival at the registration screen, you will be requested to enter a username and a valid email address. Failure to use a valid email address may prevent registration, depending on how a forum is configured.
Once the registration form is completed and submitted, there are three possibilities for what is displayed next based on how the forum is configured.
- Login If registration is immediate, you will be automatically logged in.
- Activation If a message about email activation is displayed, your account must first be activated. An email with instructions how to proceed is sent to the new member's email address, be sure to check your spam folder.
- Approval If a message about member approval is displayed, the new account must first be approved by an administrator before login. An email acknowledging the new member is sent to their email address. Another email may be sent later to inform them whether or not their application has been approved.
If a forum is configured to require email activation before login, an email will be sent to the email address provided at registration. The username and activation link are displayed in this e-mail. Selecting the activation link activates the member's account and prompts them to login. If a problem occurs with the activation link, the email also provides an activation code that can be used to complete the process.