HTML code for a forum? A forum cant be built with HTML only. But yes, you can built it for free. Try open source scripts like phpbb3, smf etc
The poster is an idiot. Ignore this thread. But I'm sure it will fill with other posters because, after all, this is DP.
Astral Walker, I am disappointed in your response to say the least. I come to the DP to offer assistance to "Peons" or whomever legitimately has a question about the web. You managed to insult the person asking the question and anyone who comes to his aid. Bravo. If you are unhappy with the DP, no one is forcing you to be here. It would however be appreciated to keep destructive comments like those to yourself. Thank you. Woody1010, you can use an open source software like Drupal for forums. It is based on PHP, and requires a host/server that supports mySQL databases. Most hosts have these requirements. Good luck.
At least get my name right if you're going to address me. Even DP posters get that right. You're the first to get it wrong. I didn't do that. He did it to himself. I only saved the three or four intelligent posters on DP some time. This whole thread is destructive to DP. Pointing it out is doing posters a favor. No one with half a brain that knows anything about how the web works would bother to answer this thread. See what I mean.
@drhowarddrfine: I understand your reaction. It's frustrating for those really have the skills that everyone without having a clue try to do something on the WWW. But the WWW isn't the freaky construct for pioneers and future oriented people with fantastic ideas anymore. The WWW became commercial and it's more about marketing instead of real quality and technical knowledge these days in general. It's the same for the big 'webmaster' forums. So be a step better and ignore such posts as long as your response isn't really constructive.
I think it's a bit harsh to say that, a lot of people don't get these things. I've had plenty of customers ask silly things like this. In response to others: I wouldn't say to use Drupal etc for forums, not if you want a dedicated forum solution, building one yourself is a false economy of sorts, its a huge job (least if your thinking IPB scale). I'd recommend a forum package for a forum.