Make it so you do not have to edit the config.php file at installation

[CarpCharacin]

On most other forum platforms, you do not need to edit the config.php file. It is easy for a lot of us, but for beginners, it may seem overwhelming. It seemed overwhelming to me Here is a link to it on JIRA: when i installed vbulletin! My suggestion, is to just have it set up so you enter the database info while installing the software. It would also attract more customers to vbulletin. it is number VBV-14148 in JIRA. Make sure you vote for it!

EDIT: i have also linked to the issue in JIRA below.

[Wayne Luke]

This is already possible. If you don't edit the config.php files, a form will be presented asking for the values needed and it will create the appropriate configuration files before the install script runs.

In fact, the vb5readme.html doesn't mention editing config.php files unless there is a problem with the automatic method.
Running the Install Wizard

1. After uploading the files to your chosen location on your server, open your web browser and enter in the address followed by your vbulletin_root and install/install.php.
   Example: http://www.example.com/forums/install/install.php
2. Since this is your first time installing, the system should automatically redirect you to the Installation Wizard.
3. The first screen of the Wizard will ask for your Customer ID to authorize you. Enter this and click "Begin Install"
4. The Configuration Builder will create the necessary config.php files for you. Fill in the values for:
   • Cookie Prefix - Use the default of bb
   • Database Type - vBulletin support mysql and mysqli. mysqli is preferred.
   • Database Name - The name used when you created the database on the server.
   • Table Prefix - Unless you have other applications installed in the same database, it is best to leave this blank.
   • Technical Email - Your email address
   • Database Server Name - This will be provided by your hosting provider. Most use localhost.
   • Database Port # - Use the default port of 3306 unless directed otherwise by your hosting provider
   • Database Username - The username specified when you created your database. If you don't know this, contact your hosting provider.
   • Database Password - The password specified when you created your database. If you don't know this, contact your hosting provider.
   • Admincp Directory - Should specify the default of admincp
   • ModCP Directory - Should specify the default of modcp
5. Click "Create Files"
6. The system should create your config.php files for you and present a message of "File Creation Complete".
7. If the system was unable to create your config.php files, please see 'Manually editing the config.php files'.
8. Return to your install location: http://www.example.com/forums/install/install.php.
9. Click "Begin Install".
10. Follow the instructions on the screen. You should encounter two dialog boxes:
    • The first will ask for the name of your forums, paths of the forums and webmaster email address.
    • The second will ask for information to create your first Administrator user.

[mangoz]

You do realize the members area when you download the software guides you to this page, right?

http://www.vbulletin.com/docs/html/

Which clearly talks about prepping files including for the current versions of the software.

Consider standardizing. I too found the editing and renaming of files cumbersome and a barrier that foreshadowed the experience to come.

[Wayne Luke]

The manual is in the process of being updated. The readme file has more up to date instructions.

[Zachery]

I personally consider having to edit/set permissions on different folders/files more confusing and complex myself. But that is me.