In the fast-moving world of software development, updates are inevitable. However, in scientific research, especially molecular modeling workflows, stability and repeatability often matter more than newer features. If your current project depends on a specific functionality from an older version of SAMSON, or if a particular SAMSON Extension is only compatible with an earlier release, reinstalling an older version can be the right move.
Thankfully, SAMSON makes it easy to install earlier versions without complications such as needing administrator access or manually cleaning deep system files. Whether you’re rerunning an old workflow or maintaining compatibility with a lab-wide configuration, the steps below show you how to get exactly the version you need.
Installing an Older Version of SAMSON
You don’t need a separate installer to go back in time. Just use the standard SAMSON installer from SAMSON Connect. During installation, follow these steps:
- Run the installer as usual.
- At the second step, look for the option labeled Install an older version and check it.
- The installer will display a list of older versions. Select the version you want to install based on its developer number (e.g., version 2.0.2 = 2021 version).
Need help decoding which version number corresponds to which public release? Check the list of User Guides for other SAMSON versions.
Running a Specific SAMSON Version
Modern research setups often involve trying out several versions for compatibility testing. If you already have multiple SAMSON installations and want to run a specific one (for example, for reproducing published results), use these paths to launch a non-default version:
On Windows:
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C:/Users/%USERNAME%/OneAngstrom/SAMSON-Application/10.0.0/Binaries/SAMSON-Core.exe |
On macOS:
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$HOME/Applications/SAMSON.app/ |
On Linux:
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$HOME/OneAngstrom/SAMSON-Application/10.0.0/Binaries/SAMSON-Core.sh |
Adjust the version number in the path based on the version you installed.
A Few Notes
- You can keep multiple versions installed simultaneously, which can be helpful when migrating project files or comparing behaviors between versions.
- Remember that newer SAMSON Extensions may not work with older versions of SAMSON. To ensure compatibility, stick with extensions released around the same time as your installed version.
Being able to rollback or maintain older versions can greatly improve reproducibility and reduce friction, especially in collaborative environments. Whether you’re troubleshooting, comparing features, or finalizing a publication, knowing how to manage installation versions is an essential tool in your modeler’s toolbox.
To learn more about installing or updating SAMSON, visit the official SAMSON FAQ documentation.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can get started at https://www.samson-connect.net.