Activation Problems

How to Fix Office 365 Setup Loop on a New Dell Laptop

Phi Hung Vo Oct 20, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to complete the initial setup of a new Dell laptop because the pre-installed Office 365 activation screen is stuck in a repetitive loop.

How to Exit the Office 365 Setup Loop on a New Dell Laptop

Product: Microsoft Office 365
Device & OS: Windows 10
Scenario: Performing the initial system setup and attempting to activate the bundled Microsoft Office software on a new device.
Observed behavior: The screen displays 'Office comes with your device.' Clicking 'Get started' redirects to another setup page, and the back button either returns to the initial screen or becomes unresponsive, preventing the user from bypassing or completing the setup.

Before you start

Ensure your Dell laptop is connected to a stable internet connection and that you have your Dell order invoice or Service Tag handy in case you need to verify your bundled software license.

Solution 1Recommended

Consult Dell Documentation and Support

Since the Office license is bundled by the manufacturer, Dell provides the specific initial installation process and can verify your digital license.

Many new Dell computers use a digital delivery method for bundled software like Microsoft Office. If the out-of-box setup encounters a glitch, the manufacturer is best equipped to resolve OEM license issues.

Check the packaging for activation inserts

Review the documentation and packaging supplied with your new Dell laptop for any specific Office activation instructions, digital product key cards, or setup pamphlets.

Locate your Service Tag

Find the Service Tag sticker on the bottom of your Dell laptop (usually a 7-character alphanumeric code). You will need this to prove your warranty and software entitlements.

Contact Dell Technical Support

Visit the official Dell Support website, enter your Service Tag, and initiate a chat or call with a support agent. Request them to inspect your system's digital delivery entitlement and troubleshoot the setup loop.

OEM Licensing: Microsoft support typically redirects bundled software activation issues back to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) like Dell during the initial warranty period.

Solution 2

Force Close the Setup Task and Update Windows

Use the Task Manager to forcefully exit the frozen setup screen, then update Windows to fix potential system bugs causing the loop.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office: A Free and Hassle-Free Alternative

If you are tired of dealing with Office 365 setup loops and activation errors on your new Dell laptop, WPS Office offers a lightweight, completely free alternative that requires no complex setup or bundled licenses.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button to get the setup file.
2. Install the Software: Double-click the downloaded file and follow the straightforward on-screen instructions to install WPS Office on your laptop.
3. Open and Edit Documents: Launch WPS Office to immediately start creating, opening, and editing your documents without worrying about activation loops.

Skip the frustrating setup loops and start working instantly.Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats.Lightweight installation that won't slow down your new Windows 10 laptop.Familiar user interface for a seamless transition from Microsoft Office.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my new Dell laptop say 'Office comes with your device'?

Many new Dell laptops are sold with a bundled trial, a 1-year personal subscription, or a permanent license for Microsoft Office. This prompt is part of the initial Windows out-of-box experience designed to help you claim and activate the included software.

Will I lose my Office license if I force close the setup loop?

No. If your laptop was purchased with a legitimate Microsoft Office license, the digital entitlement is tied to your device's motherboard or your Microsoft Account. Force closing the frozen screen will not void your license.

What should I do if my Dell invoice says Office is included but I can't activate it?

If you are certain you purchased an Office license with your Dell machine but the setup fails or is stuck, you must contact Dell Support directly. They can use your Service Tag to verify the purchase and use the Dell Digital Delivery tool to push the license to your device.

Can I just uninstall the pre-installed Office 365?

Yes. If you prefer to use a different office suite or a different version of Microsoft Office, you can go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features, locate 'Microsoft Office Desktop Apps' or 'Microsoft 365', and select 'Uninstall'.

Installation & Activation