When ever I add the file index.php in my ftp the page says 500 internal server error. If I don't have it; Index of / then the list of files in my ftp. Help please?
Where are you getting the index.php file and what version of SMF are you using?
The index.php came with the zip file I downloaded. I'm using 1.1.13 I think.
Have you uploaded the whole package you downloaded? Maybe try downloading the large upgrade package for your version of SMF and re-upload them.
which index.php file are you talking about? you might want to check your file/folder permissions sounds like your server does not like what is set on that file.
How do I chmod? / what is chmod? (http://wiki.simplemachines.org/smf/What_is_chmod)
The one in the public_html not in any folders like themes or anything.
that file is required for smf to work. if you are having 500 errors with the file in place contact your host and ask them why.