We mainly upgraded because of security/optimization reasons and also our contract was about to run out in a few days and we wouldn't have access to any future updates. But... here are some of the new features:
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IPB 2.1's new features high-lights include:
* Rich Text (WYSIWYG) Editor
Allow your members to easily format their posts, signatures and personal messages.
* RSS (Really Simple Syndication) Import
Import RSS content from all over the 'net as new topics in any forum you choose.
* RSS (Really Simple Syndication) Export
Allow others to syndicate your content by setting up exclusive RSS export streams from forums of your choice.
* Multiple Question Polls
Create new polls in our easy to use interface. Set different questions for multiple question polls.
* Member's Display Name
Optionally allow your members to choose thier own display name which is separate from their log-in username, and change it as often as you allow.
* Components Framework
Download pre-written components and install them with a few clicks. Create new functionality without needing to
touch a line of IPB's code; future-proof your modifications!
* Improved Forum and Topic Marking
Forum are topic markers are now stored in the database. Our comprehensive system accurately tracks all your unread
topics regardless of which computer you use to access your account.
* Topic Rating
Allow your members to rate each other's topics. This can be set per forum and per usergroup.
* Concurrent Post Capture
Optionally merge concurrent posts within a settable time-limit. Prevent "And another thing..." from creating a new
post!
* In-line Topic Editing
An IPS innovation: Edit topics from the forum listing without a need to refresh your page!
* In-line Post Editing
An IPS innovation: Edit posts quickly from the topic view page without reloading the topic!
* Member Name Suggest
An IPS innovation: When composing a new PM or pruning a forum, enter part of a member's name and IPB will bring up a
list of suggested matches, instantly!
* MyAssistant Re-Designed
An IPS innovation: A combined floating palette comprising of instant notification of new PMs with the ability to
cycle through recent PMs. Instant "new posts" listing, and quick search - all used without a single page refresh!
* Re-designed Admin Control Panel
A totally re-worked ACP. A new tab system categorizes the ACP menu making it much easier to find what you want!
* Re-designed Template Editing Screen
Taking advantage of the very latest scripting tools, we've totally re-worked the template editing interface making
it much easier to find the correct template bit you need to edit and even allowing you to edit several at once.
* Log In Authentication
Choose between different types of authentication. Use existing member databases to authenticate your users; allow
a single password for your current member systems and your forums! LDAP and .Net PassPort modules being developed
now.