In this article
Sassafras KeyServer is a license server solution available for institutional Max license holders. This article addresses some of the common questions about how the system works with Max.
What is KeyServer?
The Sassafras KeyServer authorization scheme is a way to parse out a specific number of authorizations to a large collection of machines on a server. It acts like a library where one machine holds the total number of authorizations and any machine on the network may "check out" a license. Once the software is closed and no longer in use, it returns the authorization back to the pot where it may then be used by another machine.
What does KeyServer cost?
There is no extra fee due to Cycling '74 after your regular Max purchase to set up KeyServer for Max. However, using KeyServer does require a subscription to Sassafras KeyServer, which is developed and maintained by Sassafras Software and is in no way affiliated with Cycling 74. Please check the Sassafras website for their fees.
Is there a special version of Max for KeyServer?
If your school owns Max 7 (or later), then there is not a special version. You download the current version of Max, and request a Max KeyServer File for your school.
If your school owns Max 6.1.10 (or earlier), then there is a special version. To receive the download information, fill out this form.
What do I need to run a KeyServer version of Max?
In addition to your KeyServer running on some machine on your network, you need to install the KeyClient software from Sassafras on all machines that will be running Max. Please check their website to ensure you have the latest version (6.0.2.5 or later); Max may not work with earlier versions. In addition, the computer running Max needs to be connected to the network so it can communicate with your KeyServer.
If I've already authorized Max using the online authorization, can I still switch to the KeyServer option?
Yes. Contact support to switch you over to the KeyServer option.
Can I authorize subscription licenses and full licenses of Max from the same server?
KeyServer only handles 1 license type for any product at one time. If your institution has a combination of full and subscription licenses, we can issue a single file with the total number of seats that will expire when the subscription expires. You will have to request a new file when you renew or cancel the subscription to reflect the correct number of license seats.
What products are available for the KeyServer?
All versions of Max starting with Max 4.5 are available for KeyServer. This includes product extensions such as MSP, Jitter and Gen.
How do I submit a KeyServer authorization request?
If your school owns Max 7 (or later), download the current version of Max, and request a Max KeyServer File for your school.
If your school owns Max 6.1.9 (or earlier), you must first receive the download information. To do so, fill out this form.