Getting molecular modeling software onto a workstation can be a frustrating detour: the installer needs an account credential, a network connection, and a compatible system before you can begin your actual work. A little preparation makes the process easier to follow—and gives you a clearer idea of what to check if installation pauses.
This guide focuses on the practical path from download to first launch, including the details that are easy to overlook when you are setting up SAMSON for the first time.
Before downloading: check three things
- Confirm your system is supported. Review Requirements and platforms before starting. Graphics compatibility matters: the installer may warn you about Intel graphics cards. The documentation notes that you may choose to ignore the warning, especially if your computer also has an NVIDIA or AMD graphics card.
- Make sure you can access your account. You will need to sign in to SAMSON Connect to download the installer, and the setup asks for the email address associated with your account and your SAMSON key.
- Check whether you need a particular release. If you need an older version, consult the instructions for installing an older version before proceeding. With Advanced mode, the installer lets you select a specific SAMSON version.
Download and keep your credentials handy
Go to the SAMSON download page, sign in or create an account, and download the installer for your operating system. If you do not know where to find your key, SAMSON Connect lists it under Account > Settings and on the download page. The SAMSON key FAQ also explains where to look.
Having the right email and key ready before you launch the installer can prevent an avoidable pause partway through setup.
Pay attention to the connection check
The installer needs to reach SAMSON Connect to download SAMSON and its Extensions. If your network uses a proxy, enter the proxy parameters and use Test connection before continuing. A successful check displays SAMSON Connect reached successfully. If you do not know the required proxy settings, ask your system administrator rather than guessing; the test button can confirm whether the settings work.
Use the connection test if your network requires a proxy.
Choose the installation mode that fits your needs
Once the installer has accepted your account details, you can choose the default or advanced installation mode. Advanced mode is useful when you need a custom installation path or a specific SAMSON version. Otherwise, follow the installer’s guided steps: accept the license agreement, configure a proxy if needed, provide your credentials, and let it download and install the selected version.
The installer requests the email associated with your account and your SAMSON key.
Linux: launch the installer from a terminal
On Linux, open a terminal in your Downloads folder, make the installer 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 issues, use the Troubleshooting guide for the next steps.
After installation: keep extensions in mind
When setup finishes, launch SAMSON and follow the first-launch instructions. You can then explore SAMSON Extensions to customize your installation.
One useful version detail: Extensions are updated for the latest version of SAMSON and update automatically when you launch the platform. SAMSON checks for updates regularly; you can also check manually through Interface menu > Update SAMSON. If you use macOS and file access is limited, see the documentation on Full Disk Access.
For the complete installation walkthrough, visit the SAMSON installation documentation.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Get SAMSON.