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How to Install and Use Microsoft Word for Ubuntu Linux (Step-by-Step)

January 5, 2024 21.7K views

Microsoft Word is a popular word processing software that is used by millions of people around the world. However, it is not natively available 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 Word on Ubuntu.

Part 1: Microsoft Word on Ubuntu Linux

#1. How to install Microsoft Word on Ubuntu?

Step 1: Launch PlayOnLinux

Launch PlayOnLinux from the Applications Menu or via the terminal:

$ playonlinux

Click on "Install a program."

Step 2: Search Microsoft Office and Choose the Version

Uncheck the "Testing" option to access stable/commercial releases.

Search for "Microsoft Office" and choose the appropriate version.

Click "Install."

Step 3: Choose the Setup File/Choose CD

Choose the setup file or CD option. If using a setup file, browse and select it.

Click "Next."

Step 4: Configure Wine Essentials

Click "Next" to proceed.

Wine essentials will be configured, and wine mono and wine gecko packages will be installed.

Wait for the installations to complete.

Step 5: Install Wine

The Office setup wizard will appear.

The installation will start automatically.

Once completed, Microsoft Office applications like Word, PowerPoint, and Excel will be listed on PlayOnLinux.

This method allows you to run a specific version of Microsoft Office that is not available in the Snap store. However, it may not be as reliable as using the Snap package, as it is more dependent on the specific version of Wine that you are using.

#2. How to Use Microsoft 365 in Ubuntu Linux?

Using Microsoft 365 on Ubuntu Linux is possible through the Snap package for Word. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Enable the Snapd runtime by entering the following command in your terminal:

Step 2: Install Word using the Snap package with this command:

Step 3: After installing the "Unofficial-webapp-office" application, go to your Activities menu.

Step 4: In the search bar, type "Word."

Step 5: When Word starts, you'll encounter a Microsoft "Sign in" page. Use this interface to log in with your Microsoft account or create one if needed.

Step 6: Once you're logged in, you'll have access to the Word interface. Click the "New blank document" button to start creating and editing documents.

This method is the most reliable way to use Microsoft Office on Ubuntu Linux.

Resonating Reminder:

We acknowledge that working with Microsoft Word on Ubuntu may present compatibility challenges. However, rest assured that there are workarounds and alternative solutions to facilitate efficient document creation and editing on your Ubuntu system. It's crucial to select the option that aligns with your requirements and to remain mindful of compatibility factors.

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Part 3: How to Edit Microsoft Word for Free on Ubuntu Linux

Let's start by introducing WPS Office, a versatile and free office suite that offers robust compatibility with Microsoft Word on Ubuntu Linux. WPS Office empowers Ubuntu users to effortlessly create and edit Word documents, ensuring a seamless experience with widely-used file formats.

How to download WPS Office on Ubuntu Linux?

Step 1: Visit the official WPS Office download page for Linux at WPS Office Download.

Step 2: Select the "Linux" option.

Step 3: Click the "Free Download" button.

Step 4: The download will begin automatically.

Steps to edit Word/Excel/Powerpoint in WPS on Ubuntu Linux:

Step 1: Launch WPS Office from your applications menu.

Step 2: Click on "File" in the menu bar.

Step 3: Navigate to the location of your Microsoft Word document.

Step 4: Double-click the document to open it in WPS Office.

Step 5: Make your edits using the intuitive WPS Office tools.

Step 6: To save your edited document, click on "File" and select "Save" or "Save As."

FAQs

1.Which program in LibreOffice is equivalent to Microsoft Word?

The equivalent program in LibreOffice to Microsoft Word is "Writer." Writer is a robust word processing application, similar to Microsoft Word and Corel's WordPerfect. It offers many similar features and high compatibility with Word file formats. LibreOffice Writer is released under the Mozilla Public License v2.

2.What is the default word processor in Ubuntu?

The default word processor in Ubuntu was previously OpenOffice.org. However, since Ubuntu 11.04 (Natty), it has been replaced by LibreOffice. LibreOffice Writer serves as the default word processing application in modern Ubuntu installations.

Summary

In this step-by-step guide tailored for 2023, you've gained invaluable insights into seamlessly integrating Microsoft Word with Ubuntu Linux. From installation to effective utilization, we've covered it all. Despite the compatibility challenges, we've provided you with reliable solutions, ensuring you can wield this essential tool with confidence.

Furthermore, we introduced WPS Office as a versatile and free alternative, offering seamless compatibility with Microsoft Word on Ubuntu Linux. Its intuitive interface and robust features empower you to create and edit documents effortlessly.


15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.