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How to Fix Microsoft 365 License Error Code 44
Question details
Users are unable to use Microsoft 365 desktop applications due to a licensing failure with Error Code 44, which appears after the software has been functioning normally for an extended period.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Opening and attempting to use Microsoft 365 applications for daily tasks but encountering a prompt indicating that activation or licensing has failed.
- Observed behavior
- The Microsoft 365 applications stop working, restrict editing features, and display a licensing error with Code 44.
Ensure you have your Microsoft account credentials ready and an active internet connection so you can successfully communicate with the licensing servers to verify your subscription status.
Verify Your Personal Microsoft 365 Subscription Status
Use this method if you purchased Microsoft 365 on your own to ensure your subscription has not expired or encountered a billing issue.
Error Code 44 typically occurs when the local Office application fails to validate your subscription. The first step is to confirm that your account still has an active license.
Open your web browser, navigate to Office.com, and sign in using the Microsoft account associated with your Microsoft 365 purchase.
Click on your profile picture in the top right corner, select 'My Microsoft account', and then click on 'Services & subscriptions' from the top navigation menu.
Look for your Microsoft 365 subscription on this page. Check if it says 'Active' or if there is a prompt to renew or update your payment method.
To confirm your account privileges are working, try opening Word or Excel online from the Office.com homepage. If they work, your license is active and the issue is with the local desktop app.
Resolve Licensing for Work or School Accounts
If your Microsoft 365 license is provided by an organization, you will need your IT administrator's help to verify it.
Contact Microsoft Support for Activation Reset
If your license is active but the desktop applications still show Error 44, you may need backend support from Microsoft.
Use WPS Office When Microsoft 365 Fails
Tired of dealing with licensing errors and subscription renewals? WPS Office is a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that lets you view, create, and edit Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without the activation headaches.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installation file and follow the quick on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Double-click any of your existing Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files to open and edit them seamlessly in WPS Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly causes Microsoft 365 License Error Code 44?
Error Code 44 indicates that the desktop application is unable to verify a valid license for your account. This usually happens if your subscription has expired, a payment failed to process, or there is a synchronization issue between the local app and Microsoft's licensing servers.
Can I still access my files if Microsoft 365 shows an activation error?
Yes. Even if your Microsoft 365 applications fall into an unlicensed state, your documents remain safe. The desktop apps will typically enter a reduced functionality mode where you can view and print files, but you cannot edit them. You can still fully edit them using Office.com web apps or a free alternative like WPS Office.
How can I check if my Microsoft 365 subscription has expired?
You can check your subscription status by logging into your Microsoft account at office.com and navigating to the 'Services & subscriptions' section. This page will display the current status and expiration date of all your Microsoft services.
Why did Error 44 appear suddenly after a year of working fine?
Microsoft 365 subscriptions are typically billed on an annual cycle. If you purchased a one-year subscription that recently reached its renewal date and auto-renew was turned off or your payment method failed, the license will expire, triggering this error right around the one-year mark.
