[optrex]

Originally Posted by Will

I store a lot of images on this database (many of which are for future projects or side projects which I use this database and forum software for), and that includes any images that are uploaded by members, which isn't much, but I choose to store them in my MYSQL database rather then take up server space.

I see, I started off that way (with a host that had unlimited size mysql) but when it came to looking at galleries (all 3 major vb ones and several independants) they all use file store rather than database store. I asked why and was very strongly advised not to store images in that way, so I haven't since. May be worth considering or investigating further?

I'm not sure where you get your info from, but certainly ASO'S MYSQL database has a lot more then 15 connections, and I also know that 1and1's 18 is pitiful.

ASO's own forum. Here is the link http://forums.asmallorange.com/index...ndpost&p=55526 where it actually quotes the member of staff who advised on 15 concurrent connections for shared hosting. It must be stressed this is DB connections not number of people on the forum at one time. There are also numerous threads advising on VPS not to go much bigger than that due to mysql servers not coping. VPS is a step up from shared.

This is all fact that has been verified by Jelsoft, the people who make VBulletin, and is also backed up by countless vbulletin users. But don't take my word for it, go to VB own forum and look at the hosting section. You will find hundreds of posts also verfying what I say.

I agree I've read lots of threads (many of the vB ones do recommend ASO) and I've gone through loads of hosting an webmaster forums to get the info verified. Don't forget when looking at recommendations that the US customer is going to get a very different experience to the UK one!

Anyway, I do want to try and keep the thread constructive. It is in no way meant to be a critisism of the way WO (or any other site) is run or hosted. Just trying to help and offer advice.