Your SAS installation key is primarily located in your Software Order Email (SOE), which is sent to you by SAS after your purchase. This email is a crucial resource for beginning your SAS installation process.
The Source of Your SAS Installation Key
When preparing to install SAS software, especially versions like SAS 9.4 on a Windows operating environment, your Software Order Email (SOE) is the definitive starting point. This essential email not only contains your unique installation key but also provides other vital details such as your specific order number and the type of installation you are licensed for (e.g., Basic or Planning).
What is the Software Order Email (SOE)?
The Software Order Email (SOE) is a confirmation and instruction email sent directly from SAS upon the successful processing of your software order. It serves as your primary reference for all initial installation steps and licensing information.
- Key Contents of the SOE:
- Your unique SAS Installation Key.
- Your SAS order number.
- Details on the type of installation (e.g., Basic, Planning).
- Links or instructions to access other necessary installation files, such as the SAS Installation Data (SID) file.
How to Locate Your Software Order Email
If you're unsure where to find your SOE, follow these steps:
- Check Your Email Inbox: Search the email account that was used to place the SAS software order. This is typically an organizational email address for corporate licenses or your personal email for individual purchases.
- Look in Spam/Junk Folders: Sometimes, legitimate emails from new senders can be misclassified as spam. Check these folders thoroughly.
- Search Your Email History: Use keywords like "SAS Software Order," "SAS Installation Key," "Software Order Email," or "SAS License" in your email client's search bar.
Tips for Searching Your Email
- Sender: Look for emails from "SAS" or "SAS Institute."
- Subject Line: Common subject lines include "Your SAS Software Order," "SAS License Information," or "Important: SAS Software Delivery."
- Date: Try to recall when you purchased the software and search within that timeframe.
If You Cannot Find Your SOE
If after a thorough search you are still unable to locate your Software Order Email, there are a few alternative avenues:
- Contact Your Organization's IT Department or SAS Administrator: For enterprise or academic licenses, your IT department or a designated SAS administrator often manages software deployments and may have access to a central repository of installation keys and licensing information.
- Contact SAS Technical Support: If you are the direct licensee and cannot find your SOE, reaching out to SAS Technical Support is the next best step. Provide them with your order number (if you have it) or other identifying information to help them retrieve your license details.
Why You Need Your SAS Installation Key
The installation key is a critical component for authenticating your SAS software during the initial setup. It works in conjunction with your SAS Installation Data (SID) file to ensure your software is properly licensed and configured according to your purchased products.
| Information Needed | Where to Find It | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| SAS Installation Key | Software Order Email (SOE) | Authenticates your software during installation. |
| SAS Order Number | Software Order Email (SOE) | Identifies your purchase with SAS. |
| Installation Type | Software Order Email (SOE) | Specifies your licensed configuration (e.g., Basic, Planning). |
| SAS Installation Data (SID) File | SAS Software Download Site / SOE | Contains licensing details and product configurations for your specific SAS deployment. |
Understanding SAS Installation Components
Beyond the installation key, other components are essential for a successful SAS installation:
- SAS Installation Data (SID) File: This file contains crucial licensing information, including the products you are licensed to use, the expiration date of your license, and system requirements. It is typically downloaded from the SAS software delivery site.
- SAS Deployment Wizard: This is the primary tool used to install, configure, and manage your SAS software. It guides you through the installation process, where you will input your installation key and point to your SID file.
Best Practices for Managing Your SAS Software Information
- Secure Storage: Once you locate your SOE and SID file, consider saving them in a secure, easily accessible location, such as a cloud storage service or an encrypted folder.
- Backup: Create a backup of your SOE and SID file to prevent loss in case of email issues or system failures.
- Documentation: For organizational deployments, document where these files are stored and who has access to them.
