Microsoft Office is a popular productivity suite that is used by millions of people around the world. However, it is not natively supported on Ubuntu, a popular open-source Linux distribution. This can lead to compatibility and installation challenges. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of installing and using Microsoft Office on Ubuntu.
Part1: Microsoft 365 on Ubuntu Linux
#1.How to install Microsoft 365 on Ubuntu?
Step 1: Open the terminal.
Step 2: Update system packages:
sudo apt update
Step 3: Install SNAP (if not already installed):
sudo apt install snapd
Step 4: Install Microsoft 365 web app via SNAP. Choose one of the following commands:
For an unofficial Microsoft 365 web app:
sudo snap install unofficial-webapp-todo
For a beta version of Microsoft 365 web apps:
sudo snap install office365webdesktop --beta
Alternatively, for another unofficial Microsoft 365 web app fork:
sudo snap install unofficial-webapp-fork
Step 5: Locate Microsoft Office app icons in your applications menu after installation.
Step 6: Launch any Microsoft Office application and sign in with your Microsoft account, or create a new one if needed.
This method is the most straightforward, but it may not be the most reliable. Wine is a compatibility layer that allows Windows applications to run on Linux, but it is not perfect. Some features of Microsoft 365 may not work properly when running in Wine.
#2.How to Run Microsoft 365 on Ubuntu?
Step 1: Open your web browser on your Ubuntu Linux system.
Step 2: Navigate to the official Microsoft Office website by entering the office.com in your browser's address bar.
Step 3: Sign in with your Microsoft account. If you don't have one, you can create a new account by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 4: Once signed in, you will have access to online versions of Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. Simply click on the application you wish to use.
Step 5: You can now create new documents or upload existing ones to edit them directly in your web browser. All your files will be automatically saved to OneDrive, Microsoft's cloud storage, ensuring easy access and synchronization across devices.
This is the simplest way to run Microsoft 365 on Ubuntu. You do not need to install any software or configure anything. However, you will need to have an internet connection to use this method.
Important Reminders:
Browser Compatibility: Opt for a compatible web browser like Chrome or Firefox for the optimal Office 365 experience on Ubuntu.
Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is your lifeline when using web-based Office 365 apps.
File Compatibility: Keep in mind potential formatting differences when collaborating on Office files with Windows or macOS users while on Ubuntu.
Storage: Check your OneDrive storage limits, as Ubuntu users often lean on cloud storage for Office documents. Stay organized!
Part 2: Free Office Suite for Word, Excel, PowerPoint on Ubuntu Linux
When it comes to free office suites that offer compatibility with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint on Ubuntu Linux, WPS Office shines as a prominent choice. WPS Office is a robust and user-friendly alternative that allows Ubuntu users to seamlessly handle their document, spreadsheet, and presentation needs. Key features of WPS Office include:
Microsoft Compatibility: Easily work with Microsoft Office files without compatibility issues.
Cross-Platform: Use it on Ubuntu, Windows, or macOS for seamless file sharing.
Robust Features: Enjoy rich editing tools and templates.
PDF Editing: Annotate, merge, and convert PDFs effortlessly.
Cloud Integration: Connect to Google Drive and Dropbox.
Free and Premium: Get started for free, or upgrade for more features.
How to download WPS Office?
Step 1 Go to the WPS Office download website: https://www.wps.com/download/
Step 2 Choose the "Linux" option and click on the "Free Download" button.
Step 3 The download will start automatically.
Step 4 Run the following instruction to install WPS Office
Steps to edit Word/Excel/Powerpoint in WPS on Ubuntu Linux :
Step 1 Open WPS Office and Click on the "File" menu
Step 2 Browse to the location of the Word/Excel/PowerPoint file that you want to edit.
Step 3 Click on the file to open it in WPS Office.
Step 4 Make your edits to the file.
Step 5 When you are finished editing, click on the "Menu” and select "Save As".
FAQs
1. Does Ubuntu have an office suite?
Yes, Ubuntu users can create professional documents, spreadsheets, and presentations using LibreOffice, an open-source office suite that's fully compatible with Microsoft Office. This means you can open, edit, and share files like Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and PowerPoint presentations seamlessly on Ubuntu.
2. Can I use Excel on Ubuntu?
No, you cannot install Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint directly on Ubuntu as you would on Windows. Instead, Ubuntu users typically rely on open-source office suites like LibreOffice or OnlyOffice, which offer Linux-compatible versions. Additionally, you can use the online version of Microsoft Office, accessible through a web browser at office.com, for Excel, Word, and PowerPoint functionality on Ubuntu.
Summary
In conclusion, this comprehensive guide has provided you with two effective methods to install and run Microsoft 365 on Ubuntu Linux. Whether through the straightforward installation or by accessing Microsoft Office through your web browser, you now have the tools to seamlessly integrate this popular productivity suite with your Ubuntu system.
Additionally, we introduced WPS Office as a powerful alternative for handling your document, spreadsheet, and presentation needs. With its Microsoft compatibility, cross-platform capabilities, and robust features, WPS Office stands out as an excellent choice for Ubuntu users. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, and you'll be well on your way to mastering seamless productivity in 2023.
