You're probably reading this because you're stuck in a frustrating situation, and exasperated by the lengthy Microsoft Office installation process. To make matters worse, you're now constantly seeing a prompt that the OSPPREARM.exe file has failed, leaving your Microsoft trial solution in limbo. In this article, I’ll explain what this error means and guide you through how to fix the OSPPREARM.exe failed issue to activate Microsoft Office so you can successfully activate Microsoft Office and get back on track.
I’ll also suggest some lightweight, reliable alternatives that won't run into such frustrating errors. These alternatives are easier to install and manage, ensuring you can stay productive without dealing with constant setbacks.
What is OSPPREARM.exe and why does it fail to activate Microsoft Office?
OSPPREARM.exe is a tool that allows you to extend the trial period of Microsoft Office without needing a proper license for immediate activation. Essentially, it acts as a temporary solution by resetting the activation status of Office products, enabling continued use during the trial period. This can be a more cost-effective option to test out Microsoft Office if you’re not ready to purchase a full license yet.
However, when OSPPREARM.exe fails, it can leave you in a state of confusion prompting you to think how to fix annoying OSPPREARM.exe errors? Before diving in on how to activate OSPPREARM.exe, let’s first investigate the common reasons why you may encounter the OSPPREARM.exe failed error:
Corrupted Installation Files: If the installation files for Microsoft Office were not properly downloaded or became corrupted during the installation process, the OSPPREARM.exe tool may fail to execute.
Expired Trial Period: OSPPREARM.exe is meant to reset the activation status during the trial period. If the trial has fully expired, the tool will no longer be able to extend the usage.
Permission Issues: Sometimes, the tool fails to run due to insufficient administrative privileges. OSPPREARM.exe requires elevated permissions to make changes to the Office activation status.
Outdated or Incompatible Software: Using an outdated version of Microsoft Office or a version that is incompatible with your operating system can lead to the failure of OSPPREARM.exe.
Interference from Other Software: Antivirus programs or system security settings may block the execution of OSPPREARM.exe, mistaking it for malicious activity.
How to Fix OSPPREARM.exe Issue to Activate Microsoft Office
I’ve explored various methods and scoured the internet to find the most reliable and simple solutions to fix the annoying OSPPREARM.exe errors. After filtering out scams and misinformation, I’ve narrowed it down to 6 practical tips. If you’re asking, 'Why is my OSPPREARM not working?',one of these solutions will help you on how to fix the annoying OSPPREARM.EXE errors and successfully activate Microsoft Office on your system.
Tip 1: Check Your Internet Connection
The OSPPREARM.exe is an executable file on your Windows system, and it requires a stable internet connection to connect with Microsoft servers in order to activate Microsoft Office. So, if you’re facing this issue, the first step is to check your internet connection. You can do this in the following ways:
Check your WiFi settings:
Press the “Windows” key on your keyboard and go to “Settings”.
In “Settings”, click on the “Network & Internet” tab to view your connection.
Check Internet Connectivity:
Open your browser and navigate to a website to check if your internet connectivity is working properly.
Disable firewalls and antivirus temporarily:
Sometimes, firewalls and antivirus software can interfere with the activation process. Temporarily disable them to see if this resolves the issue.
On your keyboard, press the “Windows” key and search for “Windows Security”.
In Windows Security, click on the “Firewall & Network Protection” tab on the left pane.
Select the network profile (e.g., Domain network, Private network, or Public network) you are connected to, and then toggle off the switch under “Windows Defender Firewall”.
This method usually gets the job done, but if you're still facing issues, move on to the next tip to ensure TLS 1.2 is enabled. This is crucial for secure communication with Microsoft servers during the activation process.
Tip 2: Ensure TLS 1.2 is Enabled
To enable TLS 1.2, which is crucial for secure communication with Microsoft servers during the activation process of Microsoft Office, follow these steps:
Enable TLS 1.2 via Group Policy (for Windows Pro and Enterprise)
Step 1: Press the Windows key and type gpedit.msc, then press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
Step 2: Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > SSL Configuration Settings.
Step 3: Double-click on SSL Cipher Suite Order.
Step 4: In the dialog box, ensure that the TLS 1.2 cipher suites are included in the list. If they are not, you may need to modify the list to include them.
Step 5: Click OK to save your changes and exit the Group Policy Editor.
Enable TLS 1.2 via Registry Editor
Step 1: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog, type “regedit”, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
Step 2: Navigate to the following path:
“HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SecurityProviders\SCHANNEL\Protocols”
Step 3: Right-click on Protocols, select “New”, then click on “Key”. Name the new key TLS 1.2.
Step 4: Inside the TLS 1.2 key, create two new keys named Client and Server.
Step 5: For both Client and Server keys, right-click on the right pane, select New, then choose DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name them Enabled and DisabledByDefault.
Step 6: Set the Enabled value to 1 and the DisabledByDefault value to 0.
Step 7: Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Tip 3: Run the Microsoft Office Activation Troubleshooter
Next, let's try running the Microsoft Office Activation Troubleshooter to solve our OSPPREARM.exe issue.
Step 1: Download the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant from the Microsoft website.
Step 2: Once downloaded and installed, select the option related to activation issues and follow the prompts to diagnose and fix problems with your Microsoft Office activation.
Tip 4: Repair or Reinstall Microsoft Office
If nothing has worked so far, it might be due to some corrupted files. In this case, it's best to repair Microsoft Office first. If the problem persists, I suggest reinstalling the application to get a fresh start.
Step 1: Open the Control Panel on your system and go to the "Uninstall a Program" section.
Note: The appearance of this window may differ depending on your version of Windows.
Step 2: Locate your Microsoft Office product, right-click on it, and select "Change" from the context menu.
Step 3: A confirmation prompt from Windows will appear. Click "Yes" to proceed.
Step 4: Choose "Quick Repair" and then click "Repair". This feature will scan for issues or missing files and automatically resolve them.
Note: Ensure you have a stable internet connection, as the repair process may require online access.
Step 5: If the Quick Repair does not fix the issue, try performing a full "Online Repair" for a more thorough solution.
If the OSPPREARM.exe file still isn’t running after the repair, try reinstalling the Office suite.
Step 1: In the Control Panel, find Microsoft Office, right-click on it, and select "Uninstall" to remove the suite from your system.
Step 2: Once Office is uninstalled, go to the official Microsoft website using your browser.
Step 3: Sign in to your Microsoft account and download the Office suite compatible with your Windows version.
Step 4: After downloading, install the Office suite. Open any Office application, sign in, and start using the software.
Tip 5: Manual Activation
If after reinstallation, your Office suite still isn’t activating and continues showing the activation error, try using your product key to manually activate Microsoft Office.
Step 1: Launch any Microsoft application on your computer, such as Microsoft Word, to open the Activation Wizard.
Step 2: On the startup page of the Microsoft app, navigate to the "Account" tab on the left sidebar.
Step 3: In the Account section, locate and click the "Activate Product" button positioned centrally on the page.
Step 4: A pop-up window will appear. Select the "I have a product key" option to proceed.
Step 5: Enter your product key and then click on the "Activate Office" button to proceed.
Step 6: Follow any additional prompts to complete the activation process. Once activation is successful, you should see a confirmation message indicating that your Office is activated.
Step 7: Verify that Office is activated by returning to the "Account" section under the "File" tab.
Tip 6: Check the Time and Date on Your Computer
When the date and time on your computer are not set correctly, it can interfere with the activation process because Microsoft Office relies on accurate time settings to verify licenses and connect with its activation servers. Therefore, make sure the date and time on your computer are accurate.
Step 1: Press the “Windows” key on your keyboard and go to “Settings”.
Step 2: In the Settings window, click on the “Time & Language” tab on the left pane.
Step 3: Under Time & Language, make sure the “Set time automatically” option is toggled on.
Taking the time to follow these steps will eventually save you from having to reinstall the whole Microsoft Office suite, and most importantly, it will help keep your files intact. But if you're looking for a long-term, secure solution, I’d highly recommend switching to WPS Office. It’s completely free, lightweight, and packed with all the tools you need, just like Microsoft Office, minus the activation headaches or costly plans. No more worrying about licenses or frustrating errors. Just install, and you’re ready to go, with all the functionality and none of the hassle!
The Advantages of Using WPS Office: A Free and Powerful Alternative
Microsoft Office has its fair share of problems—it's too expensive, and when you're trying to get used to the trial version, you often encounter frustrating errors like OSPPREARM.exe failures. What you really need is a reliable solution that won’t let you down.
That's where WPS Office comes in. I've been using it for quite some time, and my only regret is not switching sooner. WPS Office is lightweight, installing almost instantly, and it offers both free and premium versions, including AI-powered tools in its office suite. It provides everything Microsoft Office does, from writing, presenting, and spreadsheet tools, but with a more intuitive user interface—a hybrid design that mirrors the familiarity of Microsoft Office but without the clutter and headaches.
However, a few of the major reasons why I would strongly recommend using WPS Office is because:
Comprehensive Suite of Tools: You get everything you need for writing, presenting, and managing data, just like Microsoft Office.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Seamlessly switch between devices with ease attributing to it's all-in-one office suite design.
User-Friendly Interface: A clean and intuitive design that’s easy to navigate.
Advanced Editing Features: Tools that enhance productivity and efficiency.
Extensive File Format Support: WPS Office supports DOC, DOCX, PPT, PPTX, PDF, and more.
Regular Updates and Support: Stay ahead with continuous improvements and reliable customer service.
Privacy and Security: Your documents are kept safe and secure.
To get WPS Office, simply follow the steps below for an easy download and installation process:
Step 1: Open the WPS Office website through the browser of your choice.
Step 2: Locate the "Free Download" button on the center of the homepage and click to initiate download.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions, which is to find the "wps_wid.cid" file in your downloads folder and run it as an administrator to start the installation wizard.
Step 4: A prompt for installation will pop up, where you are supposed to click on the “Install Now” button as well as agree to terms and conditions of WPS Office.
Step 5: Once installed, launch the app and start using its full suite of tools without needing any activation.
FAQs
1. What should I do if I encounter specific error messages during activation?
If you encounter specific error messages during activation, record the exact message you receive. You can then search for solutions on the official Microsoft Support website or reach out to Microsoft Support for personalized assistance. It's important to provide them with the detailed error code or message to ensure they can offer the most accurate guidance.
2. How can I check if my internet connection is causing the activation failure?
To determine if your internet connection is the source of the activation failure, start by confirming its stability. You might also want to briefly turn off any security software or firewalls that could be blocking the connection. Next, try browsing a few other websites to verify that your internet is working properly. If these steps don’t fix the issue, you could try rebooting your router or switching to a different network to eliminate connectivity issues.
A Hassle-Free Alternative to Microsoft Office: WPS Office
Learning how to fix OSPPREARM.exe failed isAlthough OSPPREARM.exe can be helpful, Microsoft Office’s heavyweight, costly nature, and limited feature selection can make it difficult to manage. If you’re looking for a hassle-free solution without the headaches, consider WPS Office. Its lightweight design and complete suite of tools will allow you to get your work done without any complications in installation or activation.
