This is a comprehensive guide on how to download, install and activate Microsoft Office 2021. Learn how to boost your productivity with the latest version of this popular productivity suite.
Starting a new computer journey can be exciting, but when it comes to downloading software like Microsoft Office, it can quickly become confusing and overwhelming. With so many different versions to choose from and the cost of purchasing the software, it's no wonder why many people are left wondering where to start. In this guide, we'll provide you with the answers you need to download Microsoft Office 2021 for free and start editing documents, presentations, and spreadsheets with ease.
What’s Microsoft Office 2021?
Microsoft Office 2021 is the latest version of the popular productivity suite from Microsoft, featuring updated versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and more. With new features and enhancements, Microsoft Office 2021 is designed to help users be more productive and efficient.
Some of the new features include improved collaboration tools, new data analysis tools in Excel, and more powerful presentation features in PowerPoint. Additionally, Microsoft Office 2021 offers a streamlined user interface that makes it easier to find and use the tools you need. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a casual user, Microsoft Office 2021 has something to offer.
Difference between Office 2021 and Microsoft 365
Microsoft Office 2021 and Microsoft 365 are both productivity suites from Microsoft, but they have some significant differences.
Microsoft Office 2021 is a standalone software suite that can be purchased and installed on your computer. It includes updated versions of popular Microsoft applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, but once installed, it does not receive any new feature updates unless you purchase a new version.
On the other hand, Microsoft 365 is a subscription-based service that provides access to the latest versions of the Microsoft Office applications, as well as other services like OneDrive, Exchange, and SharePoint. With a Microsoft 365 subscription, you receive regular updates and new features for the included applications, as well as access to web-based versions of the apps and cloud storage.
Another key difference is that Microsoft 365 provides access to mobile and web versions of the applications, allowing you to work on your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations from anywhere with an internet connection. Microsoft Office 2021, on the other hand, is limited to the device it is installed on.
Overall, the choice between Microsoft Office 2021 and Microsoft 365 depends on your needs and preferences. If you prefer a one-time purchase and don't need access to web-based versions of the apps or cloud storage, Microsoft Office 2021 may be the better option. However, if you want the latest features and access to web and mobile versions of the apps, Microsoft 365 may be the better choice.
Highlights
Here are new highlights of Microsoft Office 2021:
One-time buyout
Unlike Microsoft 365, Microsoft Office 2021 is a one-time purchase with no subscription required. This means you own the software and don't have to pay for ongoing access.
Functions
Microsoft Office 2021 includes updated versions of popular applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, as well as OneNote, Access, and Publisher. These applications offer a wide range of functions for productivity and creativity.
Compatibility
Microsoft Office 2021 is compatible with Windows 11, Windows 10, and macOS, not supported on Windows 7. This means you can install it on your desktop or laptop computer, and it will work with the latest operating systems.
Price
Microsoft Office 2021 is priced affordably compared to Microsoft 365. The price varies depending on the edition you choose and whether you're buying for personal or commercial use.
No update
Once installed, Microsoft Office 2021 does not receive regular updates like Microsoft 365. Instead, you'll need to purchase a new version if you want access to new features and enhancements.
Streamlined interface
Microsoft Office 2021 features a new and improved user interface that makes it easier to find and use the tools you need.
Enhanced collaboration
Microsoft Office 2021 includes improved collaboration tools that make it easier to work on documents with others in real-time.
System Requirements for Microsoft Office 2021 Download
Before downloading Microsoft Office 2021, it is essential to ensure that your computer meets the system requirements for the software to work correctly. Here are the minimum system requirements for Microsoft Office 2021:
Operating System: Windows 10 or later, Mac OS X 10.14 or later.
Processor: Intel or compatible 64-bit processor (PC) or Apple Silicon (Mac).
RAM: At least 4GB RAM for PC, 8GB for Mac.
Hard Disk Space: At least 10GB of available disk space.
Graphics Card: DirectX 10 or higher compatible graphics card for PC.
It is essential to note that the system requirements can vary based on the specific version of Microsoft Office 2021 you are downloading. Ensure that you check the system requirements for the particular version of Office you are downloading before proceeding with the installation.
How to Download and Install Microsoft Office 2021
Microsoft Office 2021 is a popular productivity software suite used by millions of people worldwide. If you're looking to download and install Microsoft Office 2021, here are the steps you need to follow:
Steps on Microsoft Office 2021 Download for Windows 11/10
Go to the Microsoft Office website and select the version of Office 2021 that you want to download.
Click on the "Download" button to start the download process.
Once the download is complete, open the file to start the installation process.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
Enter your product key when prompted.
Click on the "Activate" button to activate your copy of Microsoft Office 2021.
Your Office 2021 installation is now complete and ready to use
Make sure your system meets the minimum requirements for Microsoft Office 2021 before proceeding with the download and installation process. Following these simple steps, you can easily download and install Microsoft Office 2021 on your Windows 11 or 10 PC and enjoy its new features and improvements.
Steps on Microsoft Office 2021 Download for Mac
Go to the Microsoft Office website and select "Office 2021 for Mac" from the menu.
Choose the version of Office you want to download, such as Home & Student or Home & Business.
Click "Buy and download now" and enter your payment information to complete the purchase.
Once you've completed the purchase, you'll be given a download link for the installer.
Open the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
However, it's important to note that Microsoft Office 2021 on Mac may have some bugs and compatibility issues compared to the Windows version.
Microsoft Office 2021 Free Download via Third-Party Pages
If you want to download Microsoft Office 2021 for free, you can use third-party pages. However, you should be cautious about the sources you use, as they may not be secure:
Choose a reliable third-party website that offers Microsoft Office 2021 free download. One example is the Techworm website
Click on the download link for Microsoft Office 2021.
Wait for the download to complete.
Open the downloaded file and follow the installation wizard to install the software on your computer.
Once the installation is complete, open Microsoft Office 2021 and activate it with a valid license key.
Remember to always check the authenticity of the download source before proceeding with the download.
Install Office 2021 via ISO on Windows 11/10
Installing Microsoft Office 2021 via ISO on Windows 11/10 can be a bit complex compared to other methods.
First, download the Office 2021 ISO file from a reliable source.
Next, mount the ISO file by right-clicking on it and selecting "Mount".
Open the mounted ISO file and run the setup.exe file.
Select the option "Install Office" and follow the instructions to complete the installation process.
Enter the product key when prompted to activate the software.
Once the installation is complete, open any Office application such as Word or Excel to start using the software.
This process may seem daunting to some users who are not familiar with handling ISO files. However, it can also be a useful method for those who want a physical copy of the installation files and want to avoid downloading from the internet. The steps involved in this process are well-explained in the article, making it easier for users to follow.
Best Alternative to Microsoft Office 2021 - WPS Office
WPS Office is a free and comprehensive office productivity suite that offers all the essential tools needed to create and edit documents, presentations, and spreadsheets. It was developed by Kingsoft Office Software Corporation Limited and is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS platforms.
WPS Office offers a familiar user interface, similar to that of Microsoft Office, and supports a wide range of file formats, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. WPS Office has gained popularity among users as a reliable alternative to Microsoft Office, offering similar features and functionalities at no cost.
Why Choose WPS Office?
WPS Office offers a free version with basic functions, while users can also pay for advanced functions. Unlike other free office suites, WPS Office does not include any ads, making it a great choice for those who prefer a clean and ad-free working environment.
WPS Office is compatible with all Windows versions, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux, making it a versatile choice for users who work on different devices. To edit and save Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint with WPS Office, follow these simple steps:
Open WPS Office and create a new Word/Excel/PPT document.
Edit the document as you normally would.
When you're finished, click "File" and choose "Save As."
In the "Save As" dialog box, choose the Microsoft Office format you want to save the file in (e.g., .docx for Word).
Click "Save" to save the document in the Microsoft Office format.
WPS Office is easy to update, with regular releases of new features and bug fixes.
WPS Office offers a wide selection of free and beautiful templates for users to use in their documents, making it a great choice for those who need professional-looking documents without the hassle of designing them from scratch.
FAQs
Is Office 2021 free for Office 2019 users?
No, Office 2021 is not a free upgrade to existing Office 2013, Office 2016, and Office 2019 users. Instead, users who want to upgrade to Office 2021 will have to purchase a one-time licence from Microsoft and install the Office 2021 software on their computers.
Can I upgrade to Office 2021 for free?
If you have a Microsoft 365 Family or Microsoft 365 Personal subscription, you already have the most current version of Office at no additional cost and should already receive the latest features to your Office apps.
Can I free download Microsoft Office 2021?
No, it is a one-time purchase software with different pricing options for different versions. There is no free Microsoft Office download option for Windows or Mac, no matter of full version 64-bit or 32.
