This software has been instrumental in the success of notable online communities such as Bitcointalk and Silk Road. A key advantage highlighted is the robust anti-spam tools that SMF provides, which are essential for maintaining the integrity of forum discussions.

SMF's appeal also lies in its user-friendly moderation features. It allows for the creation of individual moderator accounts with customizable permissions, enabling precise control over the community's moderation process. Furthermore, the software's design emphasizes simplicity and aesthetics, ensuring that users find it both easy to navigate and visually pleasing. Organizational capabilities stand out as well, allowing threads and forums to be managed with ease, an aspect where it is suggested to surpass platforms like Discourse.

Another notable benefit of SMF is its conservative use of JavaScript, which not only improves compatibility with various search engines but also anticipates future search engine technologies. This factor enhances the visibility and accessibility of the content across the web. For communities concerned about data sovereignty, SMF offers a self-hosting option, making it possible to migrate the platform to different servers when necessary. This autonomy contrasts with solutions bound to services like Microsoft/Github, where data control might be more restricted.

The search functionality within SMF is praised for its efficiency, contributing to an overall faster and more responsive user experience. The open-source nature of the software further increases its adaptability, backed by a plethora of community-developed plugins. Additionally, the fact that it operates on any server supporting PHP broadens its applicability.

After years of using phpBB and exploring other forum options, the programmer advocating for SMF made the switch and has remained satisfied with the decision. They endorse SMF based on its established track record within Bitcoin communities and overall performance since the inception of these forums. The recommendation comes from firsthand, long-term usage and a comprehensive evaluation of alternative forum software.