How to install SMF packages (mods) safely

SMF packages (often called mods) add features or change how the forum works. They’re installed with SMF’s built-in Package Manager, which edits the forum’s files for you and can undo the changes later.

Before you install anything

• Take a backup of your files and database. Backing up an SMF forum
• Check compatibility. The package page lists the SMF versions it supports. Only install packages marked for your version (2.1.x).
• Use trusted sources: the official Simple Machines customisation site, or developers you trust. A package can run any code on your forum.
• Fewer is better. Each package is another thing to update and another thing that can clash with a theme or another package.

Install a package

1. Download the package (a .zip or .tar.gz file) to your computer. Don’t unzip it.
2. In your forum, go to Admin › then Package Manager.
3. Choose the option to add or upload packages, then upload the file.
4. Go to Browse packages, find it and choose Install.
5. SMF shows a test of every change it will make. If any step says Test failed, stop: the package clashes with your theme or another package.
6. If everything passes, confirm the install, then look for the package’s settings (usually under Admin › then Configuration › then Modification Settings).

If SMF asks for FTP details

When SMF can’t write to a file, the Package Manager asks for FTP details so it can change file permissions. Enter your Traxio FTP details. Finding your FTP details

Uninstall or recover

• Uninstall from Browse packages. SMF reverses the file changes.
• If a package breaks the forum so you can’t reach the admin area, restore your backup, or ask on the Simple Machines community forum.

Packages worth considering

Start with SMF’s built-in features. When you need more, the most useful kinds for a new forum are extra anti-spam checks for registrations, SEO helpers (titles, descriptions, sitemaps), welcome messages for new members and social sharing buttons.