Quite simply, Ringtail would have an array of default options for most optimal set ups. The login and administration page would ONLY be accessible if the config.php file actually exists (even if blank). If an author wishes to use the admin page for uploading comics and tweaking options, then they must create a blank config.php file for Ringtail to write options to.

This would allow for a "set it and forget it" setup, where an author may upload Ringtail to their website, dump all of their comics in the strips directory, and leave it be. However, uploads must be done via FTP and the news/rants option is not available.

All other display options, such as page numbering, date display and so on are set in the comic's web page itself.