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How to Install Microsoft Office on Windows S Mode Without a CD Drive
Question details
The user needs to install Microsoft Office using an installation disc on a Windows 10 or 11 PC that lacks a CD/DVD drive and is currently running in S Mode.
- Product
- Microsoft Office
- Device & OS
- Windows 10 or Windows 11
- Scenario
- Attempting to install Microsoft Office on a device running Windows S Mode without a built-in optical drive, using a physical installation disc.
- Observed behavior
- Windows S Mode blocks traditional executable (.exe) and MSI installers from running, requiring apps to be installed exclusively from the Microsoft Store.
Verify if your Office product key is already linked to your Microsoft account, as this will allow you to download the digital version directly without needing the physical disc.
Download Office Apps from the Microsoft Store
This is the safest method to install Office while keeping your PC in Windows S Mode, avoiding the need for a CD drive entirely.
Windows S Mode restricts software installations to verified apps from the Microsoft Store for enhanced security and performance. Traditional MSI or EXE installers on your CD will not work.
If you have an active Microsoft 365 subscription or a compatible digital license, you can bypass the CD and install the apps digitally.
Click the Start button on your Windows taskbar, type 'Microsoft Store', and press Enter to launch the application.
Use the search bar at the top of the Store to search for 'Microsoft 365' or specific apps like 'Word' or 'Excel'.
Click 'Install' or 'Get' on the Office application page. Make sure you are signed in with the Microsoft account associated with your Office license to activate the apps.
Switch Out of S Mode and Use an External USB CD/DVD Drive
If your license requires the use of the physical disc and cannot be downloaded digitally, you must leave S Mode and use an external drive.
Try WPS Office for a Seamless Experience
If installing Microsoft Office on Windows S Mode is proving to be difficult or requires you to permanently alter your system settings, consider WPS Office. It is a powerful, lightweight alternative that is fully compatible with all major Office formats and can be easily installed directly from the Microsoft Store without leaving S Mode.
- 1. Open the Microsoft Store: Launch the Microsoft Store from your Windows S Mode taskbar or Start menu.
- 2. Search for WPS Office: Type 'WPS Office' into the search bar and select the official app.
- 3. Install and Launch: Click 'Get' or 'Install' to securely download WPS Office without leaving S Mode, then open it to start editing your documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an MSI installer in Windows 10 or 11 S Mode?
No. Windows S Mode is designed to only allow applications downloaded directly from the Microsoft Store. Traditional .exe or .msi installers are blocked by the system for security reasons.
Is switching out of Windows S Mode reversible?
No, switching out of S Mode is a permanent, one-way change. Once you upgrade your system to standard Windows 10 or 11 Home/Pro to install apps outside the Microsoft Store, you cannot return to S Mode.
Do I have to buy Office again if my PC doesn't have a CD drive?
Usually, no. If your physical CD came with a 25-character product key, you can link it to your Microsoft account at setup.office.com. Once linked, you can download the digital version of Office without needing the physical disc.
Will an external USB CD drive work automatically on Windows?
Yes, most external USB CD/DVD drives are plug-and-play. However, while Windows will recognize the drive in S Mode, you still won't be able to run the Office installation files from the disc unless you switch out of S Mode.
