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How to Install Microsoft 365 on macOS Big Sur (Fix macOS 12 Requirement)
Question details
The user needs to install Microsoft 365 on a MacBook running macOS Big Sur (11.7.10) that cannot be updated further, but the newest installers require macOS 12 or newer.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- macOS Big Sur 11.7.10
- Scenario
- Attempting to install or update Microsoft Office applications on an older Mac that is restricted to macOS Big Sur.
- Observed behavior
- The installation fails or is blocked because the latest Microsoft 365 installer mandates macOS 12 (Monterey) or a more recent operating system.
Before installing the older supported version of Office, ensure you have completely uninstalled any incompatible or partially installed versions of Microsoft 365 from your Mac's Applications folder.
Download and Install Office Version 16.77
Since macOS Big Sur only supports up to Office version 16.77, you must manually download and install this specific release from Microsoft's update history.
Microsoft only supports the three most recent major versions of macOS. Because macOS Big Sur falls outside of this window, the latest Office updates will no longer install on your device. Version 16.77 is the final compatible release for Big Sur.
Open your Applications folder, locate any existing Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint applications, and drag them to the Trash.
Visit the official 'Update history for Office for Mac' page on the Microsoft website. Scroll through the release list to locate version 16.77 (released around September 2023) and click the installer link to download the package.
Double-click the downloaded .pkg file in your Downloads folder. Follow the on-screen prompts in the installation wizard to complete the setup on your Mac.
Open any Office app (like Word), click 'Help' in the top menu bar, and select 'Check for Updates'. Uncheck the option to automatically keep Microsoft apps up to date so your Mac does not attempt to download an unsupported version again.
Use WPS Office as a Lightweight Alternative for Older Macs
If you are struggling with macOS version restrictions or want an office suite that receives continuous updates without demanding the latest hardware, WPS Office is an excellent free alternative. It offers outstanding compatibility with Microsoft formats and runs perfectly on older Mac setups.
- 1. Download for Mac: Navigate to the official WPS Office website and download the installation package designed for macOS.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Open the downloaded .dmg file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Microsoft 365 documents to continue your work seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft 365 require macOS 12 or later?
Microsoft maintains a policy of only supporting the three most recent major versions of macOS. When Apple releases a new macOS version, the oldest supported version drops off the list, which is why Big Sur is no longer supported by the newest installers.
Can I still activate my Microsoft 365 subscription on an older version of Office?
Yes, as long as you have a valid Microsoft 365 subscription, you can sign into Office version 16.77 and activate the software. It will function normally, though it will not receive new features.
Will Office version 16.77 work offline?
Yes. Once the software is installed and activated with your Microsoft account, you can use the applications offline. You only need to connect to the internet periodically (typically once every 30 days) to verify your active subscription status.
