What is the first step in installing a SMA appliance?

The first step in installing a SonicWall Secure Mobile Access (SMA) appliance involves noting the serial number and authentication code. This step is crucial as it ensures that the device can be registered and activated properly within the SonicWall system. The serial number uniquely identifies the specific appliance and is required for support, warranty, and licensing purposes. The authentication code is often needed to verify the device during initial setup and for accessing SonicWall services. By securing these details first, you ensure that the subsequent steps of the installation process can be carried out without any hitches related to device registration or activation.

Following this step, other actions such as turning on the device, making internet connections, or running setup wizards become relevant only once the appliance is properly identified and authenticated. This foundational step lays the groundwork for a smooth and effective configuration process thereafter.