Update & Upgrade Problems

How to Enable Automatic Microsoft 365 Office Updates

Algirdas Jasaitis Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to configure Microsoft 365 Office to install updates automatically rather than requiring manual intervention.

How to Enable Automatic Microsoft 365 Office Updates

Product: Microsoft 365 Office
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Keeping Office applications automatically up-to-date with the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches.
Observed behavior: Updates require manual installation because automatic updates are disabled by an organizational policy, Microsoft Update is turned off, or a previous update process failed.

Before you start

Before changing your update settings, ensure you have an active internet connection and have saved any open documents to prevent data loss during a potential update restart.

Solution 1Recommended

Enable Automatic Updates via Office Account Settings

The most direct method to turn on automatic updates is from within any Microsoft Office application's account menu.

This method applies to all Microsoft 365 applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Enabling it in one application will apply the setting across the entire Office suite.

Open an Office Application

Launch any Microsoft Office application, such as Word or Excel, and open a blank document.

Navigate to Account Settings

Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of the ribbon, then select 'Account' (or 'Office Account' if you are using Outlook) from the left-hand menu.

Enable Updates

Look for the 'Product Information' section. Click the 'Update Options' button and select 'Enable Updates' from the drop-down menu.

Enable Automatic Updates via Office Account Settings

Verification: Once enabled, the Update Options section will state 'Updates are automatically downloaded and installed'.

Solution 2

Turn on Office Updates through Windows Settings

You can configure Windows Update to automatically fetch and install updates for all Microsoft products, including Microsoft 365.

Solution 3

Run a Manual Update or Contact Administrator

If automatic updates fail or the option is disabled, you can force a manual update or check for restrictive IT policies.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for a Lightweight, Hassle-Free Experience

If troubleshooting Microsoft 365 update policies and failures is slowing you down, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, powerful, and easy-to-use alternative with seamless file format compatibility and no disruptive forced updates.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the setup file and follow the quick on-screen instructions to install the suite.
3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and immediately open your existing Microsoft Office documents without any formatting loss.

Free and lightweight office suite with a quick, uncomplicated installation process.Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats, including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Stable software environment with hassle-free updates that won't interrupt your daily workflow.Familiar user interface that requires zero learning curve for Microsoft Office users.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the 'Enable Updates' option missing in my Office Account?

The option is typically missing if your Microsoft 365 license is managed by your workplace or school. Organizations frequently use Group Policy to control software updates centrally. You will need to contact your IT administrator if you require the newest version.

How do I know if my Microsoft 365 Office apps are up to date?

Open any Office application, navigate to File > Account, and look under the 'About' section for your specific application. It will display your current version and build number. If you click 'Update Options' > 'Update Now', it will notify you if you already have the latest updates installed.

What should I do if automatic updates continue to fail?

If automatic updates repeatedly fail to install, try running the Microsoft Office Online Repair tool from the Windows Control Panel. Alternatively, you can try installing the updates manually by selecting 'Update Now'. If the issue persists, reaching out to Microsoft Support is recommended.

Installation & Activation