A molecular modeling session can get stalled before it even begins: the installer cannot reach the download server, a license key is missing, or a graphics warning appears without much context. A little preparation can make the setup more predictable. This guide focuses on the parts most likely to cause a pause, from account details to network access.
Get the essentials ready first
Before downloading, check that your operating system and graphics setup meet SAMSON’s requirements. This is especially useful if you are installing on a lab workstation or a machine with more than one graphics card. The requirements and platforms guide lists what to check.
You will also need access to your SAMSON Connect account and your SAMSON key. The key is available in Account > Settings on SAMSON Connect, and on the download page. If you cannot find it, the SAMSON key FAQ gives more detail. Having the account email and key ready before opening the installer saves a trip away from the setup process.
Make the download connection test work for you
The installer needs to connect to SAMSON Connect to download SAMSON and its Extensions. If you are on a university, company, or other managed network, a proxy may be required. The installer includes a Test connection button: use it before proceeding, and if the connection fails, enter the proxy parameters provided by your network administrator and test again.
A failed connection test does not necessarily mean the installer is broken. It can be a useful clue that the network needs proxy settings. Conversely, seeing “SAMSON Connect reached successfully” confirms that the installer can reach the service it needs for the download.
Follow the setup in a useful order
Once the connection is ready, the installer guides you through accepting the license agreement, entering your account email and SAMSON key, selecting an installation mode, and downloading the chosen version. Default mode is suitable if you do not need to customize the setup. Advanced mode lets you choose a custom installation path and select a specific SAMSON version.
If you need an older release for a project or workflow, check the instructions for installing an older version before starting. This is also worth keeping in mind when collaborating: matching software versions can help teams avoid differences caused by working in different releases.
Linux: launch the installer from a terminal
On Linux, open a terminal in the folder where the installer was downloaded, make it executable, and launch it with the command shown below. The QT_QPA_PLATFORM=xcb setting is part of the documented launch command.
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cd ~/Downloads chmod +x ./SAMSON-Setup.run QT_QPA_PLATFORM=xcb ./SAMSON-Setup.run |
If you encounter OpenGL or dependency problems, use the troubleshooting guide rather than guessing at system changes.
What to check if something looks wrong
- The installer cannot connect: try the connection test and check whether your network requires a proxy. Ask your system administrator for the correct parameters if needed.
- You cannot continue past account details: confirm that you are using the email associated with your SAMSON Connect account and the corresponding SAMSON key.
- You see an Intel graphics warning: the installer may warn about Intel graphics cards. The documentation notes that you may choose to ignore the warning, especially if the computer also has a non-Intel NVIDIA or AMD graphics card.
- You are on macOS and file access is limited: consult the guide to Full Disk Access in macOS.
After installation
When setup finishes, you can launch SAMSON from the final installer page. Extensions are updated for the latest SAMSON version and update automatically when SAMSON launches. You can also check for updates manually through Interface menu > Update SAMSON. If you are ready to customize your environment, see the guide to SAMSON Extensions.
For the complete installation walkthrough, visit the SAMSON installation documentation.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Get SAMSON.