Well, you actually will need to look at the php settings also since it is the php script that is 'talking' with mysql.

I'vve managed to sort out a few problem including where the php.ini file is and how I can edit it. Unfortunately I have never played with one of these before and I have no idea what settings should be in there that are relevant to vbulletin. I know that you can enter parameters like: this_thing=something
I just don't know what I need.

It would be extremely helpful if somebody could post an example of the contents of theirs.

I just need stuff like "upload_tmp_dir" and values for the PHP settings lynne has mentioned above. I would really appreciate it.

Also example values for the DB settings mentioned.

Thanks.

I would suggest posting in the Server Configuration forum on vbulletin.com for help with the settings because every server is going to need different settings.