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How to Fix Microsoft Office 2013 Disappeared After Windows 10 Update
Question details
The user is unable to find or access Microsoft Office 2013 applications following a Windows 10 system update and needs guidance on how to restore or reinstall the software.
- Product
- Microsoft Office 2013
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Performing a standard Windows 10 system update.
- Observed behavior
- Office 2013 applications have disappeared from the system, and reinstalling the software is blocked or fails without the original installation media and product key.
Verify your internet connection and ensure you have access to your original Microsoft Office 2013 product key or the Microsoft account associated with the purchase.
Check for Missing Application Shortcuts
Use this solution to verify if the Windows 10 update merely removed your desktop or taskbar shortcuts rather than uninstalling the actual software.
In many cases, a major Windows update will reset your taskbar or Start menu preferences. Your Office 2013 applications may still be fully installed on your hard drive, but the shortcuts you normally use to open them are hidden.
Click the Start button in the bottom-left corner of your screen or press the Windows key + S on your keyboard to open the search bar.
Type 'Word 2013' or 'Excel 2013' into the search box. Alternatively, type the executable names like 'winword' or 'excel'.
If the application appears in the search results, right-click its icon and select 'Pin to taskbar' or 'Pin to Start' to restore easy access.
Reinstall Office 2013 Using Original Media and Key
Use this solution if the software was actually uninstalled by the system update and you need to perform a fresh installation.
Switch to WPS Office When Office 2013 is Lost
If your Office 2013 applications have disappeared and you cannot find your original product key or installation disc, WPS Office is the perfect replacement. It is free, lightweight, and allows you to continue your work without missing a beat.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer file and follow the quick on-screen instructions.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint documents to resume working.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my Office 2013 apps disappear after a Windows update?
Windows 10 updates rarely delete programs, but they can reset Start menu layouts or taskbar pins. This makes applications like Office 2013 appear missing, even though the executable files are still safely installed on your hard drive.
How can I find my lost Office 2013 product key?
Your product key can usually be found on a sticker inside the original retail packaging, within the digital receipt sent to your email at the time of purchase, or by logging into the Microsoft account associated with the license.
Can I reinstall Office 2013 without the original CD or DVD?
Yes. As long as your product key is linked to your Microsoft account, you can log in to the Microsoft Services & subscriptions page and download the digital installation files directly to your computer.
Will my Word and Excel documents be deleted if Office 2013 is removed?
No. Uninstalling or losing the Office 2013 application does not delete your personal document files. Once you reinstall Office 2013 or install a compatible alternative like WPS Office, you will be able to open your existing files.
