File Format & Compatibility

How to Open Publisher Files After Microsoft Publisher Retirement

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to know how to continue accessing, opening, and editing existing .pub files once Microsoft Publisher is retired.

Product: Microsoft Publisher
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Planning for continued access to legacy documents after scheduled software discontinuation.
Observed behavior: Microsoft Publisher will be retired in October 2026, meaning Microsoft 365 subscribers will lose access to install or run the application, necessitating alternative access methods.

Before you start

Before October 2026, it is highly recommended to export your essential Publisher (.pub) files to universally supported formats like PDF or Word (.docx) to ensure long-term accessibility.

Solution 1Recommended

Keep Using a Permanent-License Version of Office

If you have a standalone, perpetual-license version of Office (like Office 2021), you can continue using Publisher indefinitely.

While Microsoft 365 subscriptions will remove access to Publisher, standalone versions of Microsoft Office are not affected by subscription changes. However, keep in mind that Publisher will not receive future support or security updates.

Verify your Office version

Check your account settings to confirm if you are using a permanent-license version like Office LTSC 2021 rather than a Microsoft 365 subscription.

Retain the installation files

Ensure you have your Office installation media and product key securely backed up, as Microsoft will eventually stop offering downloads for older Office versions.

Continue local use

You can keep opening and editing .pub files locally on your device using the installed application.

Security Risk: Using unsupported software can pose security vulnerabilities. Only open .pub files from trusted sources once updates cease.

Solution 2

Migrate and Convert .pub Files Before Retirement

Export your Publisher files to widely used formats before your Microsoft 365 subscription removes the application.

Solution 3

Use Compatible Third-Party Applications

Utilize alternative desktop publishing tools that support importing Microsoft Publisher files.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage Converted Publisher Files with WPS Office

While Microsoft Publisher is retiring, you can export your .pub files to Word or PDF formats and seamlessly edit them using WPS Office. Enjoy a lightweight, free alternative to Microsoft 365 for all your document layout and editing needs.

1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office on your PC or Mac.
2. Open your converted files: Launch WPS Writer or WPS PDF depending on the format you exported your Publisher files to (DOCX or PDF).
3. Edit seamlessly: Click 'Open', select your exported document, and use the rich layout tools to continue your work.

Highly compatible with Microsoft Office formats including Word (.docx) and PowerPoint.Free and lightweight alternative to Microsoft 365 subscriptions.Advanced PDF editing tools to seamlessly modify exported Publisher PDFs.Familiar user interface for a smooth transition from Microsoft Office.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

When exactly is Microsoft Publisher retiring?

Microsoft Publisher is scheduled to be retired in October 2026. After this date, Microsoft 365 subscribers will no longer be able to download, install, or access the application.

Will I lose my existing .pub files after October 2026?

No, your actual .pub files will remain safe on your hard drive. However, if you are a Microsoft 365 subscriber, you will lose the native software to open them. You must convert them beforehand or use alternative software to view them.

Can I still use Publisher if I buy a permanent license?

Yes. If you have a perpetual license like Office 2021, Publisher will remain installed and functional on your device indefinitely. However, it will no longer receive security updates or technical support from Microsoft.

Is Microsoft releasing a direct replacement for Publisher?

Microsoft is not releasing a direct replacement application. They recommend using Microsoft Word or PowerPoint for similar layout tasks, or utilizing third-party publishing tools.

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