Microsoft Office is a name known far and wide, celebrated for its powerful features that serve both business professionals and students, helping them achieve more in their daily tasks. However, with its steep price tag, many are reconsidering its value, especially since free alternatives like WPS Office deliver similar results without the hefty cost.
When I found myself needing Microsoft Office’s exclusive features but couldn’t justify the expense, the temptation of a pirated version loomed and yet, the risks were too great to ignore. This dilemma pushed me to explore the best alternatives, and soon, I realized I didn’t need Microsoft Office at all. If you’re still set on using it but are curious about the real dangers of cracked versions, this article will explore how to access a trusted Office suite safely and what you stand to lose if you go down the risky path of piracy.
Is Cracked Microsoft Office Safe?
A cracked version of Microsoft Office is essentially a hacked copy that allows you to use the software without going through the subscription process. While it might seem like an appealing option, especially since you're getting a pricey office suite for free, it comes with significant risks.
First and foremost, while some may argue that cracked software is safe, it often comes with serious security threats. Viruses and malware are just the beginning.
Here are some of the most common malware you might encounter when using cracked software:
Orcus RAT: This malware enables comprehensive remote control of your computer, allowing attackers to perform keylogging, access your webcam, capture your screen, and manipulate your system to steal data.
XMRig: A cryptocurrency miner that uses your system’s resources to mine Monero. It’s particularly insidious because it pauses mining during high-resource activities like gaming, making it harder to detect.
3Proxy: This malware turns infected systems into proxy servers by opening port 3306 and injecting itself into legitimate processes, allowing attackers to route malicious traffic through your computer.
PureCrypter: It downloads and executes additional malicious payloads from external sources, ensuring that your system remains infected with the latest threats.
AntiAV: This malware disrupts and disables security software by modifying its configuration files, preventing it from operating correctly and leaving your system vulnerable to further attacks.
Second, using a cracked version of Microsoft Office is illegal. This means you are violating copyright laws, which could result in serious consequences, including:
Legal Trouble: Since using the cracked version is illegal, companies like Microsoft can take legal action against individuals and businesses using pirated copies. This can result in heavy fines, legal fees, and even jail time in extreme cases. Businesses using pirated software also risk damaging their reputation and losing the trust of clients and partners.
Security Risks: Cracked software is usually downloaded from untrustworthy sources, which can be riddled with malware, viruses, and other harmful programs. Installing cracked office applications exposes your computer to these threats, which can lead to data theft, ransomware attacks, or even complete system failure. Fixing these problems can be very costly and damaging, especially for businesses.
No Updates or Support: Official office applications receive regular updates that add new features and fix security issues. Cracked versions do not get these updates, making them more vulnerable to security threats and less efficient. Additionally, if you encounter any problems with the software, you won’t be able to get help from customer support.
Ethical Issues: Using cracked software is not just illegal, it’s also unfair to the developers who create and maintain these programs. By using pirated versions, you are essentially stealing from them. Buying legitimate software supports these developers and helps encourage further innovation.
Risk of Data Loss: Cracked software often contains altered code, which can make it unstable and prone to crashing. This instability increases the risk of losing important data. For those relying on office applications for tasks like writing reports, managing finances, or creating presentations, data loss can be disastrous.
Hidden Costs: While cracked software might seem free, it can end up costing you a lot more. Legal fees, fines, and the cost of dealing with security breaches or data loss can far exceed the price of purchasing legitimate software. Businesses using pirated software may also face audits from software companies, leading to financial penalties.
The Free and Safe Alternative to Microsoft Office— WPS Office
Microsoft has been the epitome in global productivity since the 1990s, setting the industry standard with its Office suite. However, the world has changed a lot since then, and while Microsoft Office remains the prime preferred choice for many offices and schools, it may no longer be the best option for everyone. With newer, more affordable, and feature-rich alternatives emerging, users now have the opportunity to explore more innovative solutions that better meet their needs.
One such alternative is WPS Office, a prime example of this evolution. WPS Office offers both free and paid versions, each packed with advanced features, and has an interface that closely mirrors Microsoft Office. This familiarity makes it easy to transition from Microsoft Office to WPS Office without a steep learning curve.
By switching to WPS Office, you avoid the risks associated with using cracked software, such as exposure to malware and viruses, while also gaining access to a suite that enhances productivity. WPS Office not only offers the essential tools found in Microsoft Office but also includes unique features like built-in PDF tools and the advanced WPS AI.
Moreover, WPS Office is fully compatible with Microsoft Office, allowing you to seamlessly use both platforms to maximize your productivity. The standout feature of WPS Office, however, is its 4-in-1 window, where you can open Writer, Presentation, Spreadsheet, and PDF tools all within a single window. This functionality reduces the hassle of juggling multiple tabs, making your workflow more efficient and organized.
Why do I Recommend You to Choose WPS Office?
Of productivity suites, one name is rapidly outpacing the competition: WPS Office. This powerhouse of an office suite isn’t just an alternative to Microsoft Office—it’s a game-changer. The number one reason it’s at the top of my list? It offers everything you need without the risks that come with using pirated software.
Imagine working without the constant fear of malware or viruses, knowing your data and personal information are secure. Unlike cracked versions of Microsoft Office, which are illegal and can wreak havoc on your system, WPS Office is a safe, legitimate, and reliable solution. It’s not just free to use; it gives you peace of mind—a priceless benefit in today’s digital world.
Multi-Language Support: Whether you’re in New York or New Delhi, WPS Office speaks your language. With support for multiple languages, it caters to a global audience, breaking down barriers and making it easier for everyone to use.
Familiar Layout for Easy Adaptation: Switching to a new software can be a little challenging, but not with WPS Office. Its interface mirrors the look and feel of Microsoft Office, ensuring that you can easily use it thanks to its intuitiveness. Transitioning from Microsoft Office to WPS Office is credited as one of the easiest digital transitions you can make in history.
Cost-Effectiveness: Why pay for productivity when you can have it for free? WPS Office offers a robust suite of essential features at no cost. It’s an incredibly cost-effective option, especially for those who need professional-grade tools without the hefty price tag.
Support for Various File Formats and Platforms: WPS Office doesn’t just work on one platform—it works on all of them. Whether you’re using Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, or iOS, WPS Office has got you covered. Plus, it supports a wide range of file formats, so you can open, edit, and save documents in the format that works best for you.
Offline Access: Productivity shouldn’t stop when the Wi-Fi does. With WPS Office, you can keep working even when you’re offline. Whether you’re on a plane, in a remote area, or simply conserving data, WPS Office lets you stay productive no matter where you are.
How to Download WPS Office?
If you are hesitant about getting the cracked version of Microsoft Office, but you still want to avail a free Office Suite in the simplest way, follow these steps:
Step 1: First, you will have to take yourself to the official website of the WPS Office, that is where you will begin the entire process.
Step 2: Once you have found yourself there, you will see “Free Download” located in the center of the website’s homepage. Kindly click on it.
Step 3: The previous step must have prompted a file named "wps_wid.cid" to get downloaded. Usually, you can find the file in the top right corner of your tab, but if you don't, go fish for it in your Downloads folder.
Step 4: Next, you will see a pop up on your window. Mindfully read the Terms and Conditions, then accept them by clicking on the small box. Once you are done, click on “Install Now”.
Step 5: The installation can be a little timetaking. I suggest you to check out the WPS Academy for other tutorials.
Step 6: Once the installation has finished, you can successfully open the Suite and use all the WPS Tools.
FAQs
1. Is it OK to use cracked software for personal use?
Utilizing unlicensed software, even for personal activities, comes with considerable risks. Besides the legal consequences, pirated software often includes security threats like malware and viruses that can harm your device and personal information. Additionally, using unauthorized software can damage your credibility and integrity. For secure and reliable software, consider using legitimate options with proper licenses.
2. How can I use Microsoft Office for free legally?
To use Microsoft Office for free legally, you can try several methods like using Office Online, signing up for a free trial, or accessing the educational version. Additionally, there are some resources that provide product keys for Microsoft Office.
Stay Safe and Productive with WPS Office
Using a cracked version of Microsoft Office isn’t something new; it’s something that’s become surprisingly common in many parts of the world. But just because a lot of people are doing it doesn’t make it right, or safe. In fact, it’s a classic case of “better safe than sorry.” When it comes to office suites, the best way to ensure your digital safety is by relying on a trusted alternative like WPS Office.
WPS Office is designed with privacy and security in mind. Its advanced privacy features ensure that your work stays secure, accessible, and adaptable to your needs. Why take unnecessary risks with pirated software, which can expose you to malware, legal issues, and countless other headaches, when you can have a safe, powerful, and free alternative right at your fingertips? Make the switch to WPS Office and step into the future of productivity with confidence.
