How to Install a Purchased Standalone Copy of Word 2013 on a New Computer
Question details
The user needs to install a previously purchased standalone version of Word 2013 on a new computer, independently of their existing Microsoft 365 Business subscription.

- Product
- Microsoft Word 2013
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Moving or installing a separately purchased, standalone Word 2013 license onto a new computer.
- Observed behavior
- The user is seeking the correct method to download, install, and activate the standalone software and may require human assistance for legacy product activation.
Ensure you have your Microsoft account credentials or the original 25-character Word 2013 product key. You may need to uninstall the software from the original computer first to free up the license for the new installation.
Install Word 2013 via Your Microsoft Account
Use this method if your Word 2013 license was digitally linked to your personal Microsoft account.
Digital purchases or retail copies linked during the initial setup are stored in your Microsoft account. You can download the installer directly from the Microsoft services page.
Open a web browser and navigate to account.microsoft.com/services. Sign in with the Microsoft account associated with your Word 2013 purchase.
Scroll through the list of your services and subscriptions until you find your standalone version of Word 2013 or Office 2013.
Click the 'Install' button next to the Word 2013 product name. Follow the on-screen prompts to download the setup file to your new computer.
Locate the downloaded setup file in your Downloads folder, double-click it to run, and follow the installation wizard to complete the setup.

Install Using Original Installation Media and Product Key
Use this method if your purchase was physical and not tied to a digital Microsoft account.
Upgrade to WPS Office for a Modern, Seamless Experience
Having trouble installing or activating older standalone versions like Word 2013? WPS Office offers a free, lightweight, and modern alternative. Enjoy a highly compatible office suite with a familiar interface, completely eliminating the hassle of outdated product keys or complex telephone activations.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the 'Free Download' button.
- 2. Run the Setup: Open the downloaded installer file and follow the quick, one-click installation process.
- 3. Start Creating: Launch WPS Writer to immediately start working on your document files with full Microsoft Word compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions
Will my standalone Word 2013 conflict with my Microsoft 365 Business subscription?
The standalone Word 2013 license is separate from a Microsoft 365 Business subscription. You can technically install both on the same computer, but it is generally recommended to use the latest version included in your 365 subscription to avoid file association conflicts and confusion.
What if I get a 'telephone activation is no longer supported' error?
If online activation fails and you receive this error, you can still activate the product. Select the option to activate by telephone, which will provide a specific phone number for your region. Call the number, bypass the automated system if necessary, and wait to speak with a Microsoft representative.
How do I find my Word 2013 product key?
If you purchased a physical copy, the product key is usually printed on a card or sticker inside the original packaging. If you purchased it digitally, check your email confirmation or log into the Microsoft account Services & Subscriptions page, where your digital license is securely stored.




