DP Signature 5W + 1H Guide
This is written with info found as of 4/28/08. DP’s Rules may change in future but I think they will be similar. If then, feel free to drop by to help me change. I contacted a mod to post on DP but it seems some info are already on DP.
Feel free to link to this for new members asking for signature guide 
WHAT is Signature Linking?
Some of you are very eager to post signature links so you may already know this but there are some who have no clue. Forum signature is the links showing at the bottom of your forum posts after ________ break.
WHAT are the rules to follow?
The signature field can have:
-Up to 250 characters
-No more than 3 lines
-No more than 4 links
-Images are not allowed
-Adult links are not allowed (links to sites with no adult contents; pictures/vids are fine)
WHERE will signatures show?
WHO can have signature links?
Forum signature option is enabled for members who have been on DP 7 days, have positive (green) reputation and have at least 10 posts.
There may also be wait time for forum to update your stats so be patient.
WHEN will signature links show?
You signatures will show from the day you reach minimum requirement and on wards. The posts you made before the initial signature linking will not show your signatures.
WHY should I have signature links?
It is not mandatory but optional if you wish to build some traffic and back links.
When you start having links in your signature, other members in the community and the visitors will be able to see your links. Viewers will gain interests in the business you are running or the site(s) you have. This will generate auto legit traffic to your business and site(s).
DP is indexed by popular search engines who create individual pages per thread in search results. Follow attribute of forum signatures helps your signature link to beocme a backlink which become somewhat useful in SERP.
HOW can I enable my signature links?
The fastest way is:
1. Go to Quick Links at top right of the top navigation
2. Under User Control Panel > Edit Signature
3. As long as you are not exceeding the maximum limit and restrictions, you will be fine.
You can also preview your signature before finalizing.
WHY are my signatures not showing?
There could be two different reasons for this. ..
If your 10th post was very recent, it might not be in affect yet. The system checks for users that need to be “upgraded” once an hour (on the 25th minute of the hour).
You need to be a member for at least 7 days.
The forum has a reputation system that allows users to add or take reputation from other users (you can find details on how it works by clicking here).
If your reputation falls below a certain level, the system automatically revokes your ability to have a signature and live links.
If your reputation returns to being above the threshold level, the system automatically restores your ability to use live links and signatures.
So, this means it’s a good idea to try and get along with others.
