I am new to the whole hosting/PHP programming thing. I am wondering how many mySQL databases would I need if I wanted to set up a forum, news/blogs, image galleries etc. Does every one of these require its own?

And when hosts say unlimited mySQL databases, is this realistic (because for bandwith and space it is but too obvious).

Also why is cPanel looked upon as the best and what does it offer (link?)...

Thanks!

Well most scripts that require databases only require one. Many hosts actually allow unlimited databases to reasonable instances. I.e. when you get to uses hundreds of databases, it maybe become a problem.

cpanel.net - Most people like it, but it's really whatever you prefer.

Unlimited is fine since it's all based on your total resources.

One database per script is generally the norm.

Some scripts have a "prefix" setting that allows you to run many other scripts on the same database. I currently use 1 database for 3 scripts and have no issues. :)