Microsoft Office is a widely used office suite, and with that, the company ensures that Microsoft Office is updated with the latest features. Microsoft Office update is essential to run the applications smoothly with up-to-date tools. Microsoft Office requires people to download the latest updates. However, many people aren’t aware of the methods to update Microsoft Office. This article guides people on updating to the latest version of Microsoft with clear instructions.
Part 1. Why do I need to update ms office?
Microsoft Office update is essential because without updating, the applications in the suite might not work correctly, or ms may stop their customer support if the version you are using is outdated. Additionally, updating Microsoft Office is needed to keep up with the latest features and tools that ms office has released. The tools or features are a better version of current tools and features.
You might not want to install updates from Microsoft Office to avoid breaking existing software setups, maintain compatibility with older hardware, and avoid downloading large files. However, it’s important to note that your ms office version may have bugs, errors, or other issues that the latest version may have solved. People use ms office to make their work efficient and save their worthy time; thus, the latest version may make your work more efficient and save you more time. In short, the Microsoft Office update will result in better applications with better user interfaces and polished new features and tools.
Part 2. 4 ways to update Microsoft Office
The article has listed 4 ways to update Microsoft Office.
Method 1. Update Microsoft Office in Office Applications
You can install Microsoft Office updates in Office applications simply by following the below-mentioned steps.
Step 1: Open any Ms Office application and create a new file. For example, you can open Word and create a new Word document.
Step 2: Open any app of Office application, create a new document, and go to files. In the files option, click Account.
Step 3: You’ll see product information, and under that, you’ll see the Update Options. Choose the Update option and then click on Update Now. However, if you don’t see the “Update Now” option, click “Enable Updates” to allow Office updates.
Step 4: The Microsoft Office updates will be installed if a newer version is available. After finishing, a window will appear stating, “You’re up to date!”. Close the window, as the Microsoft Office update is complete now.
Method 2. Update Office Suite from Microsoft Store
Microsoft Office update can be installed from its store, i.e., Microsoft Store. You can install updates there if you purchase Office from the Microsoft Store app. Here’s how:
Step 1: If you have a Windows PC, you can simply press Windows+S, or else you need to type Windows Store in the search box and open the store. This method is specifically for Windows Users as Windows PCs have Windows Store installed.
Step 2: You need to sign in to Microsoft account that you used to sign in to the Office application.
Step 3: Click on your profile and go to settings. In settings, you’ll see that there’s an option to allow automatic updates. You can turn on automatic updates, and Microsoft Office updates will install automatically through the store.
Step 4: If you don’t want to turn on the automatic updates option, click “Library” to see the “Get Updates” option. You’ll see the applications with updates. If you see an Office application in the list, install the update, and your Office app with all its applications will be updated to the latest versions.
Step 5: Close the Microsoft store and open the Office application to see the updated versions. Enjoy the latest version of Office applications!
Method 3. How to Enable Auto-Update for Microsoft Office (Mac)
Enabling auto-updates for Microsoft in 2023 as a Mac user may be difficult for some people. However, we have developed clear guidelines to enable auto-updates for Ms. Office. Here’s how:
Step 1: You need to open any Office app such as Word. On the top menu, click Help and then click on Check for Updates.
Step 2: Many people don’t find the Check for Updates option there. In this case, you can install the Microsoft AutoUpdate tool and check for updates again.
Step 3: You’ll see an “Automatically keep Microsoft Apps up to date” option. Select that option to keep your Ms. Office up-to-date and to get the latest security and bug fixes. The latest updates and security & bug fixes will keep your Mac safe from any malware and security issues.
Step 4: Click the Update to download the available updates.
Step 5: You can choose to check the information and reviews of the app and updates. Moreover, it’s up to you if you want to update all apps at once or individually.
Method 4. How to Update an Old Office Version to Microsoft 365?
You can always download and install Microsoft Office updates; however, many people are confused about updating an old Office version to Microsoft 365. You can upgrade your Office version of 2021, 2019, 2016, or another version to the current 365 version. Here’s how:
Step 1: Before upgrading to the Microsoft 365 version, please ensure you have a backup of all the files. Usually, the files will be available after the update, but you must have a backup due to safety.
Step 2: Find the current Office version you are using max you can do this by opening any Office application such as Microsoft Word. Then click on the File and go to Account. Under Product Information, you’ll see the current version of your Office.
Step 3: Check the system requirements. Your PC must have at least a 1.6 GHz processor with 4GB RAM with Windows 8.1/10/11.
Step 4: There are several ways to upgrade to the 365 version from older versions. However, we’ll only focus on upgrading to the 365 version. You can upgrade from the 2019/2021 version to the 365 version by changing the license key, uninstalling the old version, and installing new ones from a Microsoft account.
Step 5: Go to the File section, click on Account, and click the Change License button. You’ll see an option to use the current version or change your account. Choose the current account and then move to the next screen. On the next screen, there will be Office products. You need to choose the Microsoft 365 option and click Next.
Step 6: Microsoft will download the 365 version for you later on. If you want to do it immediately, you can click the Update Now button.
Step 7: Another way to upgrade from older versions to 365 is to go to your program manager and uninstall the current version. However, make sure you have a backup of the files.
Step 8: After uninstalling the older version, install the latest version (Microsoft 365) from Microsoft’s official website and enjoy using it. After successfully installing the latest version, turn on the auto updates button to get the latest updates. Further, recheck your current version.
Part 3. Solutions to Common Errors during the Update Process of Microsoft Office
You might encounter errors while updating Microsoft Office, which is expected. Here’s how to solve them:
Try again
When an error occurs during an update, or something is not working, try again. Try to close the application, open it again a few minutes later, and update it again.
Check YourInternet Connection
Mainly, errors occur when you have a poor or unstable internet connection. Check your internet connection; try again later if it’s not stable. Ensure you have a strong and stable connection to be able to download and install Microsoft Office updates.
Update Your Windows
Errors may occur if you have an old and unsupported version of Windows OS. Update your Windows OS and try to update Microsoft Office again.
Restart the Application
Force stop the Office application through the Click-to-run process and then restart it. This would clear the errors and allow you to download the updates smoothly.
Part 4. Which version of Office can be updated for free?
Microsoft Office 365 version is subscription-based, and users can enjoy unlimited free updates. However, Office 2021/2019/2016/2013 versions are one-time-purchase, and you need to pay for the updates. This can be seen as a burden for users as users will be required to buy the software and then pay for updates. Therefore, it’s better to use a free alternative-WPS Office.
Part 5. The Best Alternative to Microsoft Office-WPS Office
WPS Office is an office-based suite with a user-friendly and easy-to-use interface. It’s free software. WPS is the one for people looking for the best alternatives. It’s updated automatically every year with no fees at all. The software allows you to use PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and PDF simultaneously, allowing you to multitask. WPS Office has millions of users worldwide, making it the best alternative to Microsoft Office. The software has many features and tools aiming to boost your creativity and productivity.
WPS Office has a variety of templates available for free on its official website. You can create Pdf, ppt, word, and Excel files and also convert pdf files smoothly.
Part 6. FAQs
Is Microsoft Office update free?
No, the old versions, I.e., 2021/2019/2016/2013 versions of Microsoft Office, have paid updates.
How can I get the latest version of Office for free?
You can get the latest version of Office for free if you are a university student. Moreover, you can use free applications on mobile phones and use Office's latest version online.
Which Office version is free?
Microsoft 365 Education version is free for students and educators.
Summary
Microsoft Office is an office suite with applications used by millions of people globally to make their work efficient and boost their creativity. Similarly, it’s essential to update Ms Office to the latest version and enjoy better security and new features. However, Office updates are paid.
Office updates are paid, and that’s not a piece of good news for people who don’t want to spend on updates. To avoid paying for updates, you can download its best alternative - WPS Office. WPS is an office suite with free updates. The software allows you to create and edit pdf, PPT, Word, and Excel simultaneously. Isn’t it magical? It is! Download yours now!
