What identification is used for matching software installations in usage?

The correct choice for identifying software installations in usage is the Configuration Item (CI). A Configuration Item is a fundamental component in IT service management and Software Asset Management, representing any component that needs to be managed to deliver an IT service. It can include software installations along with their versions, settings, and relationships to other CIs.

In the context of Software Asset Management, CIs help in tracking the physical and logical aspects of software installations. By having a comprehensive view of CIs, organizations can effectively match software installations with their usage, monitoring compliance, and understanding the overall software environment. This detailed tracking supports informed decision-making regarding license management and software optimization.

Other options like Software ID, Usage Record, and Installation Date offer insights but do not integrate the broader context that CIs provide. Software IDs may identify specific products but lack the relational mapping that CIs encompass. Usage Records capture specific interactions or transactions but do not inherently match installations directly. Installation Date offers a timestamp but lacks the comprehensive identification needed to tie back to the overall software management strategy.