Does a new forum show up on the internet before I am ready for it too?

[taogem]

I am probably going to set up a SMF forum. I presently have one with ProBoard. The biggest reason for the switch is I would like to have RSS available.

I don't really want my newly set up SMF forum to show up in any way online until I am completely set up and ready to make the switch

Will it show up as soon as I begin to set it up?

Thank you and looking forward to SMF !   

[simply sibyl]

I am probably going to set up a SMF forum. I presently have one with ProBoard. The biggest reason for the switch is I would like to have RSS available.

I don't really want my newly set up SMF forum to show up in any way online until I am completely set up and ready to make the switch

Will it show up as soon as I begin to set it up?

Thank you and looking forward to SMF !   

Yes your forum is online and available the moment you make it. 
However without advertising it in some way the chances of anyone going to it are slim.

You can put the forum into Maintenance Mode.
No one will be able to see it  (its boards, etc)
You will be able to login, do all you need to do, and use it yourself.

Admin > Forum Settings
Put a Checkmark in Maintenance Mode

[taogem]

The maintenance will work just fine. Did not think about that.

Thank you !