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Fix Cannot Reinstall Microsoft 365 After Uninstalling
Question details
Users are unable to reinstall Microsoft 365 or Office 2021 after a previous uninstallation, with the system often reporting that Office is already installed.
- Product
- Microsoft 365, Office 2021
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to reinstall Microsoft Office after standard uninstallation processes.
- Observed behavior
- The installation is blocked because remnants of the previous Office installation still remain on the computer.
Verify whether your license is for Office 2021 or a Microsoft 365 subscription, and ensure all Office applications are completely closed before starting.
Perform a Clean Uninstall Using the Microsoft Cleanup Script
Use the official Microsoft uninstall cleanup tool to forcefully remove all leftover registry keys and installation files blocking the new install.
A standard uninstallation via the Windows Control Panel often leaves behind temporary files or registry entries. The official cleanup script removes these remnants so you can install Microsoft 365 smoothly.
Save the provided uninstall script to your desktop as a .txt file. Change its extension from .txt to .cmd.
If you cannot see the .txt extension, open File Explorer, go to Options > View, and uncheck 'Hide extensions for known file types'.
Right-click the renamed .cmd file and select 'Run as administrator' to grant it the necessary permissions.
Allow the script to run and follow its on-screen prompts. Select options 2, 3, and 4 when instructed to thoroughly clean previous Office versions.
Once the cleanup finishes, sign in to your Microsoft account online, navigate to Subscriptions, click Manage, and select Redownload Office to install it cleanly.
Switch to WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Experience
If you are tired of complex installation errors, leftover registry files, and high subscription fees, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a completely free, lightweight alternative that installs in seconds without bloating your system.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click on the 'Free Download' button.
- 2. Run the Setup: Open the downloaded executable file and follow the straightforward one-click installation process.
- 3. Open and Edit: Launch WPS Office and immediately start opening or creating your Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft 365 say it is already installed after I uninstalled it?
This happens when the standard uninstaller fails to remove all system registry keys or residual installation folders. The system still detects these leftover files and assumes the software is currently installed.
How do I check if I have Office 2021 or Microsoft 365?
Open any existing Office application like Word or Excel, click on 'File', navigate to 'Account', and check the 'About' section to see your specific license details.
Will the cleanup tool delete my personal documents?
No. The Microsoft cleanup tool only removes application files, settings, and registry entries associated with the software. Your personal Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and other files remain safe on your hard drive.
Where do I redownload Office after using the cleanup script?
You can redownload the installer by signing into your Microsoft account on the web, going to the 'Subscriptions' page, selecting 'Manage', and clicking on 'Redownload Office'.
