I want to find a host for a phpBB forum.
there's several thousand registerd users, and steadily increasning, and can get up to 200 online at once.

any comments on a good web host? needs php and mysql, preferably php4.

also, i have no real idea on bandwidth needed for this, if anyone can comment on that would be appreciated.

bandwidth is your problem . 20gig at tera-byte.com , with $99/year.

I don't understand why host are so reluctant to allow message boards. Only the odd board will give you a problem.

I think most hosting companies would be glad to host your site. However you must select the one where a lot of bandwith is allowed and bandwidth is cheap.
Have a great day :)

regards
amar