Product Key Issues

How to Reactivate Microsoft Office on a Windows Virtual Machine in Parallels

Phi Hung Vo Oct 13, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to reactivate Microsoft Office on a Windows Virtual Machine in Parallels after it was removed from their Microsoft 365 device list.

How to Reactivate Microsoft Office on a Windows Virtual Machine in Parallels

Product: Microsoft 365 / Office
Device & OS: Mac / Windows (Parallels Virtual Machine)
Scenario: Attempting to re-add and activate a Windows Virtual Machine running in Parallels after accidentally deleting it from the Microsoft account device list.
Observed behavior: The product key is not recognized when attempting to manually add the virtual machine back to the device list.

Before you start

Ensure your Parallels Virtual Machine is connected to the internet and have your Microsoft 365 account email and password ready.

Solution 1Recommended

Activate Office by Signing In Directly from the App

You do not need to manually add the device using a product key. Signing directly into an Office application with your Microsoft account will automatically register the virtual machine.

Product keys are generally used to redeem a license to a Microsoft account, not to add specific hardware. By simply logging into an Office application on the Virtual Machine, Microsoft's activation servers will automatically recognize the device and apply your active subscription.

Open an Office Application

Launch any Microsoft Office application, such as Word or Excel, from within your Windows Virtual Machine in Parallels.

Navigate to Account Settings

Click on the 'File' menu located in the top-left corner of the application window, then select 'Account' from the left-hand sidebar.

Sign In with Your Microsoft Account

Click on 'Sign In' and enter the email address and password for the Microsoft account linked to your Microsoft 365 subscription.

Update the License Status

Once signed in, look for an option that says 'Update License' or 'Change License' and click it to force the application to verify your subscription.

Activate Office by Signing In Directly from the App

Virtual Machine Recognition: Parallels virtual machines often appear as entirely separate devices in your Microsoft account's device list, distinct from your host Mac machine.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Virtual Machine Experience

If you are tired of managing device limits and complex activation systems for virtual environments, WPS Office provides a streamlined, lightweight alternative that works flawlessly on both Mac and Windows.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website on your host Mac or your Windows Virtual Machine and download the appropriate installer.
2. Install the Suite: Run the setup file and follow the standard installation prompts to install WPS Office on your system.
3. Start Creating Instantly: Launch WPS Office and immediately start opening or editing your existing Microsoft formats without strict device linking requirements.

Avoid complex device activation loops on virtual machines like Parallels.Highly compatible with Microsoft Office formats including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.Lightweight installation consumes fewer virtual machine system resources.Familiar user interface makes transitioning fast and effortless.Completely free to use for your essential daily document tasks.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my original product key to reactivate my device?

No. Once a product key is initially redeemed, the license is permanently tied to your Microsoft account. You only need your account email and password to reactivate Office on any device.

Why does my Mac and my Parallels VM show up as two different devices?

Microsoft 365 identifies devices based on hardware signatures and operating systems. Because Parallels creates a distinct virtual Windows environment, the Microsoft activation server sees it as a completely separate PC from your Mac.

What should I do if the 'Update License' button is missing?

If the option is missing, try signing out of your account entirely within the Office app, restarting the application, and signing back in. Also, verify that your Windows Virtual Machine has a stable internet connection so it can communicate with Microsoft's activation servers.

Installation & Activation