The word processing tool is something everyone relies on, probably more than any other digital tool. Throughout its evolution, from a simple notepad to sophisticated word processors, it has become an integral part of how we organize our thoughts, work, and communication. For writers, in particular, these tools have been invaluable, providing a platform to create, revise, and share ideas.
But when that activation failure message pops up, it can feel like everything’s on hold, with all your work stuck in limbo. But there’s always a way out. Activation issues are usually easy to fix. Let’s first explore why this might have happened, and then we’ll walk through the steps to get you back on tra
Common Activation Issues for Microsoft Word
When you encounter an activation issue with Microsoft Word, several factors could be at play. Here's a breakdown of possible reasons:
Incorrect Product Key: If you've entered the wrong product key during installation, Word won't activate correctly. Double-check the key to ensure it's accurate.
Network Connectivity Problems: A poor internet connection can disrupt the activation process, preventing Word from verifying the license with Microsoft servers. Make sure you have a stable internet connection before attempting activation.
Outdated Office Version: If your Office suite is not up-to-date, you might run into activation issues. Ensure you have the latest updates installed, as these updates often include fixes for activation problems.
Multiple Office Installations: Having multiple versions of Office installed on the same device can cause conflicts and prevent successful activation. If you've recently updated Office or installed a new version, it's a good idea to uninstall the older versions to avoid any issues.
Volume License Issues: If you're using a volume license (common in businesses or educational institutions), there may be issues with the Key Management Service (KMS) server configuration. This could prevent your Office suite from activating correctly, and in such cases, you might need assistance from your IT department or the organization that provided the license.
How to Fix Product Activation Failed in Microsoft Word
There are multiple ways to address the "Microsoft Word Product Activation Failed" message. Some involve simple preliminary fixes, such as checking your subscription status or ensuring updates are installed. In some cases, you might need to reinstall the Office suite to prevent the issue from recurring. Let’s explore these non-technical methods so you can try to resolve the problem.
Method 1. Sign In with the Right Microsoft Account
Oftentimes, people unknowingly sign in with a different account without realizing that they need to use the account where the subscription was activated. In such cases, since the wrong account is being used, which doesn't have an active subscription, you may encounter the Word activation error. So, first, let's verify that the correct account is being used.
Step 1: First, open Microsoft Word on your system and navigate to the "Account" tab in the left pane.
Step 2: On the Account page, you'll see your Microsoft account details displayed in the center. Check if the account you're signed in with matches the one used to activate your subscription.
Step 3: If the account is different, click on the “Account” icon in the top-right corner and select the "Add an Account" option. Sign in with the email linked to your active Microsoft subscription.
Method 2. Check Your Microsoft Office Subscription
Next, let’s verify the subscription status of your Microsoft account. In some cases, the subscription may have expired, but you might still be attempting to use the account. This often leads to the activation failure. Here’s how you can check your Microsoft Office subscription status:
Step 1: Launch Word once more and head to the "Account" tab. From there, click on the "Manage Account" button, which will take you to your Microsoft account page online.
Step 2: Once on the account page, navigate to the "Subscription" tab to check the status of your Microsoft Office subscription.
The "Word Product Activation Failed" error should be resolved once any outstanding dues are cleared, in case you missed a payment. If your subscription is up to date and the issue persists, proceed to the next method.
Method 3. Check the Time and Date on Your Computer
Oftentimes, your computer's date and time configuration can be the one causing issues and interfering with the activation process, so you must make sure they are set accurately.
Step 1: To set up your date and time, you can either click on the "Windows" button in the taskbar and search for "Settings" or use the shortcut "CTRL + I" to quickly open Windows settings.
Step 2: In Windows settings, click on the "Time & Language" tab on the left pane.
Step 3: Here, you can opt to adjust the settings automatically by clicking on the "Sync now" button, or do it manually by first switching off the "Set time automatically" setting using the toggle.
Once the date and time are accurately set, try reopening your Word app on your system, and you will notice the error no longer appears. But if the error still persists, let's move on to more extensive fixes for the Word activation errors.
Method 4. Update the Office App to the Latest Version
Microsoft Office releases updates periodically, offering enhanced functionality and improving the user experience. However, these updates may sometimes be turned off. Here’s how you can update your Office apps directly from the Microsoft Word app.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word on your system, and in the left pane, click on the "Account" tab to view your Microsoft account details.
Step 2: You’ll find the "Update Options" button in the center of the screen. Click on it and then select "Update Now" to start the update process.
Microsoft will search for available updates online, and if any are found, the download will begin automatically. Just ensure you have a stable internet connection to avoid any interruptions during the update process.
Method 5. Uninstall and Reinstall Microsoft Office
If none of the previous troubleshooting methods work, the last option is to reinstall Microsoft Office including Microsoft Word manually to fix activation problems. While it may take some time, this approach can successfully remove activation errors and restore the functionality of your Office applications.
Step 1: Begin by searching for the “Control Panel” in the search bar.
Step 2: Open the Control Panel and find the "Uninstall" option under the Programs section.
Note: This step might differ slightly depending on your Windows version.
Step 3: Locate your Office program, right-click on it, and choose "Uninstall" to remove it from your system.
Step 4: After uninstallation, go to the official Microsoft website in your browser.
Step 5: Click on the "Sign-in" button and log in using the Microsoft account tied to your subscription.
Step 6: Once logged in, you'll be directed to your Microsoft dashboard. Click on the "Install and more" button at the top-right corner, then select "Install Microsoft 365 apps".
Step 7: The download will start and may take a few moments. After it finishes, find the Office installation file and double-click to launch the installation wizard.
Step 8: The installation will start automatically. Just let it run, and once it's done, your Office apps, including Word, will be ready to use.
Reinstalling Office may take some time, but it usually resolves most activation errors. If the issue persists, consider contacting Microsoft customer support or explore a reliable alternative like WPS Office.
Best Alternative to Microsoft Word - WPS Writer
Microsoft Office is undeniably powerful, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. Issues like activation errors, recurring licensing reminders, and frequent subscription notifications can disrupt your workflow and hinder productivity. WPS Office offers a refreshing alternative, addressing these concerns with its free version that includes all essential features along with access to some premium tools, ensuring seamless functionality without additional costs.
The transition from Microsoft Office to WPS Office is remarkably smooth, thanks to its user-friendly interface that feels familiar yet incorporates modern enhancements for an improved user experience. This ease of use eliminates the learning curve and allows you to focus on what truly matters—your work.
WPS Office goes beyond the basics by offering valuable features such as AI-powered tools to streamline tasks, compatibility with a wide array of file formats, and robust sharing options. Additionally, its built-in PDF capabilities enhance efficiency, making it a versatile choice for both personal and professional use. By combining functionality, affordability, and innovation, WPS Office stands out as a reliable solution for maintaining productivity without unnecessary interruptions.
How to Download WPS Writer
Are the steps to download WPS Writer as complicated? No! In fact, you can download WPS Writer in just 3 simple steps, without any technicalities. Let me show you how to download it.
Step 1: Visit the WPS Office site in your browser and select the "Download" option from the centre of the page.
Step 2: Double-click the downloaded file to initiate the WPS Office suite installation.
Step 3: Once the setup is complete, you’re ready to use the WPS Office suite.
FAQs
Q1. Can I activate Microsoft Word on multiple devices?
Yes, you can activate Microsoft Word on multiple devices. With a Microsoft 365 subscription, you are allowed to install and activate Word, along with other Office applications, across several devices including PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones. The exact number of devices you can use depends on your specific subscription plan. Generally, a personal Microsoft 365 subscription lets you install Office on up to five devices per user. Just ensure you're signed in with your Microsoft account to manage and access your installations on these devices.
Q2. Can I use Word on Mobile?
Yes, Word is available for mobile devices. Microsoft offers the Word app for both Android and iOS, enabling users to create, edit, and share documents on the go. The mobile version provides key features from the desktop version, including document formatting, collaboration options, and seamless cloud integration. To access and work on your documents from anywhere, simply download the Word app from the Google Play Store for Android devices or the App Store for iOS devices.
Q3. Can running Word as an administrator help with activation issues?
Yes, running Word as an administrator can help fix activation problems on occasion. To do this, right-click on the Word icon and choose "Run as administrator." This can sometimes bypass issues related to permissions and allow Word to activate correctly.
Why Choose WPS Office Writer?
Word is an essential tool for everyone—it’s hard to imagine anyone who hasn’t used it at least once. Even those who embrace a simpler, tech-free lifestyle often find themselves needing a word processor to draft something as basic as a letter for printing. However, not everyone has the financial means to afford Microsoft Office, and that’s where WPS Office Writer truly shines.
WPS Office Writer is an exceptional alternative, offering a seamless and user-friendly experience. With the addition of AI-powered features and other advanced tools, it has quickly gained widespread popularity. The best part? WPS Writer is free to use and delivers excellent functionality, making it a reliable choice for both casual and professional users alike.
