Microsoft 365 Installation Problems

How to Fix Microsoft 365 Installation Issues on macOS 10.13.6 High Sierra

Natalie Taylor Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to install or sign in to Microsoft 365 applications on a MacBook Air running macOS 10.13.6.

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: macOS 10.13.6
Scenario: Attempting to install or authenticate the latest Microsoft 365 desktop applications on an older MacBook Air operating system.
Observed behavior: The installation fails and sign-in problems occur because macOS 10.13.6 (High Sierra) is no longer supported by current Microsoft 365 apps.

Before you start

Before proceeding, click the Apple menu and select 'About This Mac' to check your MacBook Air's model year, which will help you determine if your hardware is eligible for a newer macOS update.

Solution 1Recommended

Upgrade to a Supported macOS Version

Update your MacBook Air to one of the three most recent macOS versions to meet the system requirements for Microsoft 365.

Microsoft 365 for Mac currently supports only the three most recent major versions of Apple's macOS. Upgrading your operating system is the most permanent and stable way to fix installation compatibility.

Check Compatibility

Verify your Mac model year from the 'About This Mac' menu and check Apple's official website to ensure your device supports a newer operating system like macOS Monterey, Ventura, or Sonoma.

Open Software Update

Navigate to the Apple menu, select 'System Preferences', and click on 'Software Update'. Alternatively, open the Mac App Store and search for the latest macOS.

Download and Install

Click 'Update Now' or 'Upgrade Now' and follow the on-screen instructions to install the new operating system. Once the update is complete, download and run the Microsoft 365 installer again.

Solution 2

Use Microsoft 365 for the Web

If your MacBook Air hardware is too old to support a macOS upgrade, you can use the web-based versions of Office applications without needing to install any software.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Your MacBook Air

If your Mac cannot run the latest Microsoft 365 apps and upgrading macOS is not an option, WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative. Enjoy powerful document editing without expensive subscriptions or demanding system requirements.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website on your MacBook Air and download the installation package designed for Mac.
2. Install the Application: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder to complete the installation.
3. Edit Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Microsoft Office files to start editing immediately without compatibility issues.

Free and lightweight alternative to Microsoft 365.Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Familiar user interface ensuring a seamless migration with zero learning curve.Requires fewer system resources, making it ideal for older MacBook Air models.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Which macOS versions are currently supported by Microsoft 365?

Microsoft 365 for Mac supports only the three most recent major versions of macOS. Whenever Apple releases a new major update, Microsoft drops support for the oldest version in that three-tier window.

Can I download an older, compatible version of Microsoft 365 for High Sierra?

While older installer packages (such as version 16.43) for macOS 10.13.6 might exist online, Microsoft no longer provides technical support, feature updates, or critical security patches for them, which can leave your system vulnerable.

Why do I get a continuous sign-in error on macOS 10.13.6?

Since High Sierra is completely unsupported by current Microsoft 365 services, the authentication protocols used by modern Office applications fail to communicate securely with Microsoft's servers, resulting in persistent sign-in errors.

Installation & Activation