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How to Fix Microsoft Project 2013 License Verification Errors
Question details
The user needs to resolve an issue where Microsoft Project 2013 closes immediately after opening due to a missing or invalid license error.
- Product
- Microsoft Project 2013
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Launching Microsoft Project 2013 to work on project plans.
- Observed behavior
- The application opens briefly and then closes automatically with an error stating that Microsoft cannot find a valid license, and restarting Windows does not resolve the problem.
Ensure you have your Microsoft account credentials or your 25-character product key ready, and save any open work in other applications before proceeding with the repair.
Repair the Office or Project Installation
Running the built-in Windows repair tool can fix corrupted application files that cause license verification to fail upon startup.
Microsoft includes a dedicated repair utility within the Windows Control Panel. It is recommended to try the Quick Repair first, as it operates faster and does not require an internet connection. If the issue persists, the Online Repair will perform a more thorough fix.
Ensure that Microsoft Project and all other Microsoft Office applications are completely closed.
Click the Windows Start menu, type 'Control Panel', and press Enter. Navigate to 'Programs' and then click on 'Programs and Features'.
Scroll through the list of installed programs to find 'Microsoft Office 2013' or 'Microsoft Project 2013'. Click on it to highlight it, then click the 'Change' or 'Modify' button at the top of the window.
Select the 'Quick Repair' option and click 'Repair'. Wait for the process to complete, then restart your computer and test Microsoft Project. If it still crashes, repeat these steps and select 'Online Repair' instead.
Disable Compatibility Mode
Running modern software in compatibility mode for older versions of Windows can interfere with the license verification service.
Verify License Account and Update Windows
A mismatch in account credentials or outdated Windows components can prevent the software from confirming its activation status.
Tired of Software License Errors? Try WPS Office
If you are frustrated by recurring license verification errors and activation crashes in your current software, consider switching your document management to WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, free alternative that offers robust tools without the hassle of strict desktop license failures.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded executable file and follow the quick installation prompts.
- 3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office and immediately begin working on your Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and PowerPoint presentations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft Project 2013 close immediately after opening?
This typically happens when the software's background licensing service fails to verify your product key or subscription. It is often caused by corrupted installation files, conflicting Windows compatibility settings, or an expired session with your Microsoft account.
Will running an Office repair delete my saved project files?
No. Running a Quick Repair or an Online Repair through the Windows Control Panel only scans and fixes the core application files and registry keys. Your saved .mpp project files and personal data remain completely untouched.
What should I do if both Quick Repair and Online Repair fail?
If both repair options fail to fix the license verification error, you should completely uninstall Microsoft Project 2013, restart your computer, and perform a clean reinstallation by downloading the installer directly from your Microsoft account's 'Services & subscriptions' page.
