Can someone tell me how you generate $$ with message board like vBulletin, UBB, phpBB?

Do they (those who have vBulletin, UBB, phpBB) make $$ just from selling impressions?

I know some are doing it for fun, but it consumes a lot of bandwidth as you have more members. Some people just get a dedicated server to host message board like vBulletin, UBB, phpBB,..but where do the $$ to maintain it?

Can someone explain to me the logic of making $$ behind this?

I don't know, but I would guess banner ads. I mean, just think about it... there are what, like 21887 threads, with probably an average around 400-500 views each. Then you have 163372 posts, where people have to go to a new page to reply, view, edit, or whatever.... It adds up!

A lot of the open source software companies also get sponsorships from web hosting companies in exchange for advertising..

I think you're making an assumption that people are trying to make money off the MBoards.

I'm sure a lot of people are doing it just for name recognition/credability (spelling?). People know and respect the people who give good answers. This can then help in their service/product/consulting.

Frank