I was talking to my friends, Andrew Connell and David Mann, about three of the most common Forms Based Authentication (FBA) options with SharePoint 2007 which he suggested I post for everyone to enjoy.
The three most common options are LiveID, SQL DB with management pages, and using a custom provider that stores users and roles in a SharePoint list. Here are some suggestions I have for different options you have.
Windows Live Authentication Membership Provider
Provider Download: Windows Live Authentication 1.0
If you want a site that uses non-Windows based authenticated users I would recommend using the Windows Live integration. This allows you to authenticate users with their LiveID accounts and takes the burden of management off of you. It isn't that difficult to set up but it will take a little bit of time the first time.
ASP.NET SQL Server Membership Provider
Provider Download: CKS:IEE (Internet/Extranet Edition)
If you want to manage and own the backend outside of SharePoint I would use SQL Server. If you are using a sql backend I would probably suggest using the CKS:IEE FBAManagement solution. Stacy Draper started a project on Codeplex, which he then helped integrate into the CKS:IEE project. If you are using FBA with SQL I would recommend using the CKS:IEE.
SharePoint List Membership Provider
Provider Download: SharePoint 2007 List Membership Provider
Finally if you want to manage the user store and keep everything in SharePoint for a simple and single point of access I would use a SharePoint list. As for using a SharePoint List for authentication, my best friend Matt Ranlett who also co-authored the SharePoint 2007 Pro book has already uploaded it on codeplex if you want to use it. There will be updates to this project in the near future from what I hear, but it should get you started.
Update: If you want to create your own Membership Provider David Mann has the API version covered in his blog: http://www.mannsoftware.com/Blog/?p=89
I also have some providers listed on the site http://www.sharepointfba.com/ so feel free to take a look. If you know of any other providers let me know and I will put them on the site.
