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How to Install Office 2021 on a Mac with Microsoft 365 Installed
Question details
The user needs to install Microsoft Office 2021 on a Mac that currently runs Microsoft 365 and seeks guidance on avoiding software conflicts and resolving installation package errors.
- Product
- Microsoft Office 2021
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- Installing a perpetual license version of Office 2021 on a Mac device where the subscription-based Microsoft 365 is already installed.
- Observed behavior
- Users encounter software conflicts or installation package errors because the two different Office versions cannot run concurrently without issue.
Before proceeding, locate the Microsoft account credentials associated with your Office 2021 purchase and ensure your Mac operating system is fully updated to meet the software's minimum requirements.
Uninstall Microsoft 365 and Clean Install Office 2021
Removing the existing Microsoft 365 applications prevents license and software conflicts, allowing the Office 2021 installation package to run smoothly.
Because Microsoft 365 and Office 2021 share similar underlying application files on macOS, installing them simultaneously often triggers package errors. A clean transition is required.
Open Finder on your Mac, navigate to the Applications folder, and select all Microsoft 365 applications (such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote). Drag them to the Trash.
Right-click the Trash icon in your dock and select Empty Trash to completely clear the Microsoft 365 files from your system.
Locate your downloaded Office 2021 installation package (.pkg file) in your Downloads folder. Double-click the file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
Launch any newly installed Office application, click Get Started, and sign in with the Microsoft account linked to your Office 2021 license to activate the software.
Switch to WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Mac Experience
Avoid installation conflicts and complex licensing issues entirely by switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, all-in-one suite that is perfectly compatible with Microsoft Office formats, allowing you to edit Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files natively on your Mac.
- 1. Download the Mac version: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the installation package designed specifically 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 instantly: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files to continue working without any formatting loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep both Microsoft 365 and Office 2021 installed on the same Mac?
No, it is highly recommended to uninstall Microsoft 365 before installing Office 2021. Keeping both versions installed can cause severe license conflicts, application crashes, and installation package errors.
What should I do if the Office 2021 installer displays an 'incompatible package' error?
An 'incompatible package' error typically indicates that your macOS version is out of date. Office 2021 requires one of the three most recent versions of macOS. Update your Mac via System Settings > General > Software Update and try running the installer again.
Will I need to download a different installer if I previously had Microsoft 365?
Yes, you must use the specific Office 2021 setup file associated with your one-time purchase. Log into your Microsoft Account portal, navigate to your Services & Subscriptions page, and download the standalone Office 2021 installer from there.
