How to Install NodeBB on OpenBSD

Introduction

NodeBB is an open-source forum application built with Node.js and MongoDB. It offers a modern and responsive design, easy-to-use admin interface, and various plugins to extend the functionality of the forum. In this tutorial, we will learn how to install NodeBB on OpenBSD.

Prerequisites

Before you begin installing NodeBB, you should have the following on your OpenBSD server:

• Root access or sudo privileges
• Node.js installed
• MongoDB installed

Step 1: Install Dependencies

Update the system package lists and install the required packages for NodeBB:

$ sudo pkg_add node mongodb

Step 2: Clone NodeBB Repository

Clone the NodeBB repository with Git:

$ git clone -b v1.14.x https://github.com/NodeBB/NodeBB.git

Navigate to the NodeBB directory:

$ cd NodeBB

Step 3: Install NodeBB

Install NodeBB with the Node Package Manager (npm):

$ sudo npm install

This will download and install all NodeBB dependencies.

Step 4: Configure NodeBB

Create a new configuration file config.json:

$ cp config.json.sample config.json

Edit the config.json file to match your MongoDB configurations:

{
    "url": "http://mydomain.com",
    "secret": "abcd-1234",
    "database": "mongo",
    "mongo": {
        "host": "127.0.0.1",
        "port": "27017",
        "username": "nodebb",
        "password": "mysecretpassword",
        "database": "nodebb"
    }
}

Step 5: Start NodeBB

Start NodeBB with the following command:

$ ./nodebb start

You should see the following output:

Starting NodeBB
  "./nodebb stop" to stop the NodeBB server
  "./nodebb log" to view server output
  "./nodebb help" for more commands

Step 6: Access NodeBB

Open your web browser and enter your OpenBSD server's IP address followed by port 4567 (the default port for NodeBB):

http://<server-ip>:4567

You should see the NodeBB setup page where you can configure the forum.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed NodeBB on OpenBSD!

If you want to self-host in an easy, hands free way, need an external IP address, or simply want your data in your own hands, give IPv6.rs a try!

Alternatively, for the best virtual desktop, try Shells!