With a single user version of Sage 50 Payroll, you can install your software on one computer. If you want to hold your data on a server, install your software and create your company, then move it to the server.

If you're interested in upgrading to a multi-user version and want to know more, leave your details and we'll be in touch.

A multi-user licence allows you to install your software on a network, with multiple users using the software. Find out how to install Sage 50 Payroll on a network for the first time.

Check your activation details

You need your activation details to use your software. If you don't already have these details to hand, check them in your Sage Account.

1. Visit my.sage.co.uk, enter your details and click Sign In.
   TIP: If you don't already have a Sage Account, create a My Sage log in.
2. Click Software, then Active products.
3. Click your serial number, then make a note of your:
   • Account number
   • Serial number
   • Activation key

Download and install Sage 50 Payroll

Next, install your payroll software.

1. Click the link below to download the installer for the latest version:
   • [BCB:324:UKI 50 Payroll current download link:ECB]
     • This normally downloads automatically to your Downloads folder. If you get a prompt to select where to save the file, select your Downloads folder, then click Save
2. To begin the installation, browse to your Downloads folder and right-click[BCB:325:UKI 50 Payroll download filename:ECB].
3. Click Run as administrator.
    NOTE: If you get a prompt to enter a username and password, enter your Windows administrator credentials, not your payroll credentials. 
4. To confirm that you accept the licence conditions, click Accept Licence.
5. Check the tax year is correct then click Next.
   
6. Leave Typical selected then click Next, then Next again.
7. Click OK.

Create your company

1. Open Sage 50 Payroll.
2. Enter your account number, serial number and activation key, then click Next.
3. Select Create a new set of data files, then click Next.
4. Enter your company details then click Next.
5. Enter a password for the manager username, then confirm it.
   You need to enter this each time you log on with the manager username.
6. Enter a security question and the answer, then click Next.
7. If you've registered with HMRC for online submissions, enter your details, then click Next.
8. Click Finish then enter the password you've created, then click OK.
9. To close the list of default reminders, click Mark as Complete.

The first thing you see when you log in for the first time is the Advice Centre. We use this to send important updates and hints and tips about your software. Read the message, then click Close.

If you have more than one company, click File then click New Company and repeat Steps 3 to 9.

Move your data to a server

If you want to hold your data on a separate server, you need to create a folder on the server to move the data into. You need to share the folder and give network users a modifying access to this. You can ask your IT support to help.

1. From within Sage 50 Payroll, click File.
2. Click Relocate data then browse to the folder you created on your server.
3. Click OK then click OK again.
4. On the menu bar, click Help then click About.
5. Under Program Details, check the data directory now shows the path to the server.

Background update

Before you process your payroll, we recommend you install the v30.02.080 background update. This is the most recent software update.

For help with doing this, visit our download and install the Sage 50 Payroll v30.02.080 background update guide.