As a productivity software expert, I've assisted numerous users in transitioning from outdated or problematic software to modern solutions. One common challenge is the complete uninstallation of Microsoft Office, especially when leftover files lead to errors or clutter. I'm Algirdas Jasaitis, and in this article, I'll explain what an Office removal tool is and why it's essential, how to use the Microsoft Office removal tool in 2025 effectively, and why WPS Office stands out as the best free alternative after uninstalling Microsoft Office.
What is the Microsoft Office Removal Tool?
The Microsoft Office Removal Tool, also known as Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant, or SaRA, is a utility developed by Microsoft that allows users to remove Office from systems altogether. This Tool is useful when the regular uninstallation method has failed or when you want to prepare the system clean before reinstalling Office.
It works by scanning your computer for any vestiges of Office, from program files and registry entries to other remnants from the previous installation. When the Tool finds these, it deletes them, reclaiming your PC's space and avoiding other potential conflicts. Key features include the following:
Complete Uninstallation: Ensures no residual files or registry entries are left behind after removal.
Fixes Corrupted Installations: It can repair damaged Office installations and remove corrupt files before reinstallation.
Compatibility Issues Troubleshooting: It resolves issues arising from conflicts in Office versions or failures in the installation process.
Why You Would Want to Use the Microsoft Office Removal Tool
When you uninstall Office via the normal uninstallation route, many files and registry entries are left behind that may cause errors or problems when reinstalling Office. This is quite common with editions such as Office 365 or Office 2019, as installation files get frequently updated and altered. The Microsoft Office Removal Tool will ensure that your system is thoroughly cleaned from the application, so it's easier to install a fresh copy of Office or switch to another productivity suite like WPS Office.
It's also helpful when your Office applications refuse to listen to the usual uninstall process or if installation errors need a clean slate before reinstalling. It's a utility of great importance for a smooth Office removal.
Now that you know why and when to use the Microsoft Office Removal Tool, let's walk you through downloading and using it to completely remove Office from your system.
How to Download and Install Microsoft Office Removal Tool
Using the Microsoft Office Removal Tool utility isn't any troublesome task. For your computer to install, these are going to be your straightforward steps towards a download of it:
Step 1. Download the utility on the official Microsoft support site and search for downloads entitled "Microsoft Office Removal Tool." You might like to input "Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant directly."
Once you have downloaded the link, click on it to download the installer.
Step 2. Install the Tool After downloading the installer, double-click the file to initiate installation. It's simple and fast, taking only a few seconds. Then, follow the installation prompts.
Step 3. Open the Tool
When you are done with the installation process, open the utility. You will get two options on a window screen: repair the Office or remove it. Once you want to uninstall the program from your system entirely, choose to remove the Office.
Step-by-Step Process: Microsoft Office Removal Tool
Now that you have installed the Microsoft Office Removal Tool facility, use these steps to remove the Office programs from your system.
Step 1: Open the Tool
Once installed, open the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant from your Start menu or shortcut on your desktop. When opened, it automatically scans your system for all installed versions of Office, be it Office 365, Office 2019, or an older version.
Step 2: Choose the Office Program to be Removed
Once it has scanned your system, the Tool lists the Microsoft Office products installed on it. You will then select which version of Office you want to remove.
If you have installed multiple versions of the Tool, you can select the one you need to remove; if you uninstall all versions, you can choose them one by one and continue to remove them.
Step 3: Follow On-Screen Instructions
The Tool will then guide you through the uninstallation process. You will be prompted with a few clicks to confirm that you want it uninstalled and close Office applications working at that time. It will prompt you to verify and initiate the removal if confirmed.
Step 4: Uninstall Complete
The removal tool will now remove all components of Microsoft Office: program files, registry entries, and other residual data. The time required may vary depending on the version of Office you are removing and your system's performance.
After the Tool finishes the uninstallation, it will flash a message stating that Office has been removed from your system.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Once the process is complete, it is a good practice to restart your computer for all changes to take effect.
How to Uninstall Office Manually
Although the Microsoft Office Removal Tool is the best option for entirely removing Office, you can try manual removal if you experience problems. However, this is a bit more complex since you must be careful not to leave any files or Registry entries behind.
1. Control Panel
To uninstall Office the traditional way:
Step 1: Open the Control Panel, then Programs → Programs and Features.
Step 2: Within the list of programs installed, find your Office program, then click Uninstall.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to finish removing it.
2. Delete Office Files and Folders
After you have uninstalled Office through the Control Panel, some leftover files can still be found in the following locations:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office
C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office
C:\Users[Your Username]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Office
Also, delete any listed folders or files from these places to be utterly removed.
3. Edit Registry
Editing the Windows registry can help remove leftover entries, but it's risky and should only be done by advanced users. Use the Registry Editor (press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter) to find and delete any registry keys related to Microsoft Office. Be sure to back up your Registry before making any changes.
What to Do After Using the Microsoft Office Removal Tool
Once you’ve used the Microsoft Office Removal Tool to uninstall Office, you may want to take the following steps:
1. Install a New Version of Office
You can download and safely install a newer version of Microsoft Office, such as Office 2021 or Office 365, using any removal tool. This will ensure this new installation starts afresh, with no leftover files or conflicts from the earlier version to bug it.
2. Move to the WPS Office
The Microsoft Office Removal Tool will ensure no conflicts between the two programs if one migrates to an alternative office suite like WPS Office. In fact, WPS Office will be a good option for those who need an efficient and cost-effective office suite. It offers similar features to Microsoft Office, added with cloud integration and AI-powered tools.
3. Keep Your System Optimized
Once you have removed Office, run some disk cleanup tools to optimize your system. Tools like CCleaner and the inbuilt Windows tool called Disk Cleanup free up more space and will ensure things run smoothly on your computer.
FAQs
1. Can Office be removed without the Microsoft Office Removal Tool?
You can manually uninstall Office through the Control Panel or Settings app. Still, the Microsoft Office Removal Tool ensures far more complete elimination of files and registry entries.
2. What if I fail to obliterate Office?
Any leftovers from the uninstallation process, files, or registry entries can easily lead to collisions with an upcoming install or even beyond with programs like WPS Office. Employing the removal tool cleans the slate properly.
3. Can I reinstall Office after using the Microsoft Office Removal Tool?
Once the Office removal process is completed, you can reinstall Office without any problem. The removal tool ensures that no residual files interfere with the new installation.
Summary
The Microsoft Office Removal Tool is a handy utility for anyone needing to uninstall Microsoft Office from their system entirely. Whether upgrading, reinstalling, or moving to another productivity suite such as WPS Office, this Tool makes the process clean and smooth. It wipes traces of Office off your computer, clearing up space and potentially avoiding future conflicts. WPS Office is a powerful suite that allows users to have various efficient alternatives to Microsoft Office, including AI-powered functionality, cloud integration, and document management.
