How to Replace Microsoft 365 with Office 2013 (32-Bit or 64-Bit)
Question details
The user wants to replace an expired Microsoft 365 trial with a one-time purchase of Office 2013 without losing files saved in OneDrive.
- Product
- Microsoft Office
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Downgrading from an expired Microsoft 365 subscription to Office 2013 while resolving product key rejection and bit-version conflicts.
- Observed behavior
- The existing Microsoft 365 installation rejects the Office 2013 product key, and installation conflicts arise if the 32-bit and 64-bit versions are mixed.
Make sure you have your 25-character Office 2013 product key available and confirm whether your Windows system is 32-bit or 64-bit before starting the reinstallation.
Uninstall Microsoft 365 and Install Office 2013
Remove the expired Microsoft 365 software completely to resolve product key rejection and bit-version mismatches before installing Office 2013.
Microsoft 365 applications cannot be activated with an Office 2013 product key. You must cleanly uninstall the subscription software before installing your one-time purchase version. Mixing 32-bit and 64-bit versions between the two also causes installation errors.
Open the Control Panel in Windows, navigate to 'Programs and Features', locate 'Microsoft 365' in the list, right-click it, and select 'Uninstall'.
Sign in to your Microsoft account to download Office 2013. Choose the 64-bit version if your computer handles large datasets, or the 32-bit version for broader compatibility with older add-ins.
Run the downloaded Office 2013 setup file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
Launch any Office 2013 application (like Word), enter your 25-character product key when prompted, and complete the activation process.
Try WPS Office: A Free and Seamless Alternative
Skip the hassle of outdated software installations and subscription fees. WPS Office is a modern, lightweight, and completely free alternative to Microsoft 365 and Office 2013.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package.
- 2. Install the software: Run the installer. The process is quick and won't conflict with any existing files.
- 3. Open your files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Microsoft Office documents to continue working immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will uninstalling Microsoft 365 delete my files in OneDrive?
No. Uninstalling the Microsoft 365 desktop applications only removes the program files from your computer. All your personal documents and files stored in OneDrive or on your local hard drive remain completely safe and untouched.
Why won't my Office 2013 product key work on Microsoft 365?
Microsoft 365 is a subscription service, whereas Office 2013 is a one-time purchase. Their licensing systems are separate, so you must install the specific Office 2013 software to successfully activate it using a 2013 product key.
How do I choose between the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Office?
The 64-bit version is best if you have a 64-bit Windows operating system and frequently work with very large Excel spreadsheets or complex graphics. The 32-bit version is recommended if you rely on older, 32-bit third-party add-ins.
Can I upgrade to a newer one-time purchase version instead of Office 2013?
Yes. If you prefer to avoid subscriptions but want newer features and security updates than Office 2013, you can purchase and install a standalone version like Office 2021.
