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How to Download and Edit Excel Files with Microsoft 365 Basic
Question details
The user wants to know how to open, edit, and download Excel files using a Microsoft 365 Basic subscription, which does not include the desktop application.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Editing and managing Excel files online or locally with a basic tier subscription.
- Observed behavior
- The user needs to use Excel for the web via OneDrive or SharePoint to manage files, as the desktop app is unavailable in their plan.
Ensure you have an active Microsoft 365 Basic subscription and a stable internet connection to access Excel for the web.
Edit and Store Excel Files Online Using Excel for the Web
Since Microsoft 365 Basic does not include the desktop app, you must use Excel for the web through OneDrive or SharePoint.
Microsoft 365 Basic provides full access to the web-based version of Microsoft Excel. By storing your files in the cloud, you can seamlessly edit and view your data from any browser.
Navigate to Office.com, OneDrive, or SharePoint and log in with your Microsoft account credentials.
Drag and drop your existing Excel file into your OneDrive or SharePoint document library to store it online.
Click on the uploaded workbook. It will automatically open in Excel for the web, allowing you to edit the file directly within your browser.
Download a Local Copy and Sync Using OneDrive Client
You can download files to your local drive or use the OneDrive sync client, but keep in mind that local editing requires a compatible desktop application.
Edit Downloaded Excel Files Locally for Free with WPS Office
Since Microsoft 365 Basic doesn't include the desktop Excel application, you can use WPS Office to open, edit, and save your local Excel workbooks for free. It is lightweight, highly compatible with Microsoft formats, and works seamlessly offline.
- 1. Download and Install WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website to download and install the free desktop application.
- 2. Locate Your Excel File: Find the Excel workbook you downloaded from OneDrive on your local computer.
- 3. Open with WPS Spreadsheet: Right-click the file, select 'Open with', and choose WPS Office to start editing your data offline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Microsoft Excel desktop app with Microsoft 365 Basic?
No, the Microsoft 365 Basic plan only includes the web and mobile versions of Office applications. You need a Personal, Family, or Business Standard plan to use the desktop version.
Do downloaded Excel files sync automatically with my online OneDrive?
If you manually download a copy via your web browser, it becomes a separate file and will not sync. To keep local files synchronized with the cloud, you must use the OneDrive desktop sync client.
How can I edit local Excel files without a premium Microsoft 365 plan?
You can install a free, highly compatible alternative like WPS Office to open and edit your local .xlsx files offline without needing an expensive subscription.
