Looking for an efficient way to download and install Microsoft Office apps across multiple devices? The Office Deployment Tool (ODT) is a trusted command-line utility that allows you to easily download, customize, and deploy Office 365 or Microsoft 365 Apps.
With the Office Deployment Tool, you can streamline installation, configure Office settings, and manage large-scale deployments with ease.
What Is the Office Deployment Tool and Why Use It?
The Office Deployment Tool (ODT) is a command-line utility from Microsoft that lets you download, configure, and deploy Click-to-Run versions of Office apps, such as Microsoft 365 or Office 365. It gives you full control over the Office configuration process, allowing you to customize installations, manage updates, and control the user experience during setup.
The ODT package includestwo key files:
setup.exe – used to install Office apps.
configuration.xml – defines installation settings, such as product selection, update channels, and installation modes.
The Office Deployment Tool is ideal for IT administrators and business users who need to:
Install older Office versions or specific configurations.
Customize Office settings at scale.
Control when and how Office updates are applied.
However, using the ODT requires technical knowledge, license activation, and manual configuration, which may be challenging for casual users.
If you're looking for a simpler, more user-friendly solution, WPS Office offers a hassle-free alternative—allowing you to create, edit, and collaborate on Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents without worrying about compatibility or complex setups.
How to Download, Configure, and Install Microsoft 365 Using the Office Deployment Tool (ODT)
The Office Deployment Tool (ODT) is an essential utility for IT professionals and advanced users who need to download, configure, and deploy Microsoft 365 or Office 365 apps. It allows you to customize installations, manage updates, and automate large-scale Office deployments efficiently.
If you want a smooth, step-by-step process to install Office using the ODT, follow this complete guide.
Step 1: Download the Office Deployment Tool from the Official Microsoft Website
To begin, go to the Microsoft Download Center and download the Office Deployment Tool.
Select your preferred language.
Click Download to start the process.
Save the installation package to your computer (the file size is about 3.5 MB, so it downloads quickly).
This ensures you are using the latest and most secure version of the tool.
Step 2: Install and Extract the Office Deployment Tool Files
After downloading:
Locate the setup.exe file you just downloaded.
Double-click it to run the installer.
Accept the Microsoft Software License Terms.
Choose a folder to extract the files (you can create a new folder for easier organization).
Click OK to complete the extraction.
This process unpacks the necessary files for Office deployment.
Step 3: Create a Custom Office Configuration File Online
Next, you'll need a configuration file to specify your Office installation settings. Visit the Office Customization Tool to create this file.
Here, you can:
Select the Office version, system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit), and preferred language.
Choose which Office apps to install or exclude.
Set update channels and other preferences such as licensing and user experience options.
Once done, click the Export button.
Step 4: Export and Save Your Office Configuration File
During export:
Choose Keep Current Settings as the file format.
Accept the license terms and name your configuration file (it will be saved as configuration.xml).
Download the file and move it to the same folder where the setup.exe file is located.
This file contains all the installation instructions for Office.
Step 5: Run the Office Deployment Tool to Start the Installation
Once your configuration file is ready and placed in the same folder as the Office Deployment Tool files, you can start the installation process.
Here’s how:
Open the Command Prompt with administrator privileges.
Navigate to the folder where the Office Deployment Tool and configuration file are located.
Follow the official Microsoft instructions to run the necessary commands to download and install Office based on your configuration.
This step will trigger the download or installation process according to the settings you defined in your configuration file.The process may take some time depending on your internet speed and selected Office apps.
Step 6: Complete the Office Installation Process
Once you run the command:
The tool will begin downloading or installing Office, depending on the command.
The process duration depends on your internet speed and configuration.
After completion, you'll see a new folder named Office in the directory.
Verify the folder’s size to ensure the download or installation has completed successfully.
Once finished, your Office apps will be ready for use.
Skip Complex Office Deployment Tool Setup — Discover WPS Office as a Hassle-Free Alternative
If you prefer an easier, hassle-free solution, WPS Office is an excellent alternative for working with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents.
It requires no complex setup, offers full compatibility with Office file formats, and is free to download—perfect for users who want a fast and easy Office suite without technical steps.
Affordable and Cost-Effective Office Solution
Looking for an affordable alternative to the Office Deployment Tool? WPS Office offers a powerful Office Suite for free, covering essential tasks like documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Even the premium WPS Pro plan is just $29.99 per year—far more budget-friendly than a Microsoft 365 license.
Wide Compatibility Across Devices
Unlike traditional office configuration tools that may have hardware limitations, WPS Office runs smoothly on most computers, including older or low-end devices. It’s fully compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems, ensuring a seamless experience.
Feature-Rich Office Tools for Every Need
WPS Office delivers all-in-one functionality with its Writer, Spreadsheet, Slides, and PDF tools. You’ll also get advanced features like OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to extract text from images, smart form creation, and access to an extensive library of templates—ideal for both personal and professional use.
Intuitive and User-Friendly Interface
Designed with users in mind, WPS Office offers a clean, modern interface similar to an office customization tool. Its tab-style layout makes it easy to switch between documents, boosting productivity for beginners and advanced users alike.
FAQs About Office Deployment Tool
1. What is the Office Deployment Tool (ODT) and How Does It Work?
The Office Deployment Tool (ODT) is a specialized deployment tool provided by Microsoft that allows users to download, configure, and install Microsoft 365 or Office 365 apps.It offers flexible deployment options, such as selecting specific Office apps, languages, installation modes, update channels, and more.
Many IT professionals also use it alongside the Office Customization Tool or Office Configuration Tool for advanced configuration and automation.
2. Which Tools Can You Use to Deploy Office 365 or Microsoft 365?
There are several options to deploy Office 365 ProPlus or Microsoft 365 Apps:
Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager
Microsoft Intune
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Office Deployment Tool (ODT)
Additionally, you can deploy Office apps directly via the Office 365 portal for individual installations.
Tools like the Microsoft Office Deployment Tool and Office Customization Tool are widely used for large-scale deployments.
3. Is the Office Deployment Tool Legal and Safe to Use?
Yes, the Office Deployment Tool is an official Microsoft utility, making it both legal and secure to use.
However, keep in mind:
You still need a valid Office activation key or subscription to activate the installed apps.
Always download the Office Deployment Tool from the official Microsoft website to avoid potential risks.
Why Struggle with Office Deployment Tools? Try a Better Option
The Office Deployment Tool offers advanced control for Office installations but can be complex for most users.
If you prefer a faster, easier solution, try WPS Office.It’s simple to download and install—no setup files or commands required. Plus, it’s free and packed with essential Office tools.
