I am currently setting up a forum which will be open to all members of a club. We would also like the forum to be accessible in a limited way to non-members/guests so that they may browse the forum before deciding if they wish to join.
We would like to be able to create two (or more) member categories - one for full members, who would be allowed to read and search all posts, post replies and new topics, and contact other members via the forum; and a category for new/guest members, who would only be able to read the topics/replies posted, but would not be able to post/reply or contact other members.
usergroups mod -> http://forum.snitz.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=48967 , it allows you to have more control over member levels etc first thing you can allow guests to browse by turning require registration off - they still can't post though.