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How to Restore Office 2016 After It Changes to a Microsoft 365 Trial
Question details
The user needs to revert their Office application back to Office 2016 after it unexpectedly upgraded to a Microsoft 365 trial that is now expired.
- Product
- Microsoft Office 2016
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Opening Office applications after an unexpected update or accidental trial installation.
- Observed behavior
- Office 2016 applications display as Microsoft 365 and show an expired trial or purchase prompt. Normal reinstallation results in an unlicensed status or a persistent activation loop.
Ensure you have access to the Microsoft account associated with your original Office 2016 purchase, as you will need it to verify your license and reinstall the software.
Completely Remove Microsoft 365 and Reinstall Office 2016
Use the official Microsoft uninstall tool to clear all conflicting Microsoft 365 and Office 2016 files, then cleanly reinstall from your associated account.
A standard uninstallation often leaves behind license files and registry keys, which causes the new installation of Office 2016 to mistakenly read the expired Microsoft 365 trial data. Using the official Support and Recovery Assistant ensures a clean slate.
Go to account.microsoft.com/services in your web browser and sign in. Confirm that your Office 2016 license is listed under your subscriptions and products.
Download and run the official Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant (SaRA) uninstall tool from the Microsoft support website.
Follow the on-screen prompts in the tool, select both Microsoft 365 and Office 2016 from the list of installed products, and proceed with the complete uninstallation.
Restart your computer. Log back into your Microsoft account on the services page and click 'Install' next to your Office 2016 product to download and activate the correct version.
Remove Stored Microsoft 365 Product Keys via Command Prompt
If reinstalling doesn't break the activation loop, manually remove hidden Microsoft 365 trial keys from your system using the Command Prompt.
Switch to WPS Office to Avoid Activation Headaches
If you are stuck in an Office 2016 activation loop or have lost your product key, WPS Office provides a lightweight, free alternative that bypasses Microsoft's frustrating licensing issues.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the setup file and follow the quick installation instructions.
- 3. Open Your Existing Files: Double-click your old Office 2016 files to open and edit them instantly in WPS Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my Office 2016 change to Microsoft 365?
This often happens if a Windows update includes a promotional Microsoft 365 installation, or if you accidentally clicked a prompt to try the new features, which temporarily overrides your existing Office 2016 license.
Can I restore Office 2016 if I lost my product key?
Yes, as long as you linked your Office 2016 product key to your Microsoft account during the initial setup. You can reinstall it directly from the Services & Subscriptions page of your Microsoft account without needing the physical key.
What should I do if the activation loop continues after a clean install?
If the loop persists, hidden Microsoft 365 credentials might still be on your PC. You will need to use the Command Prompt to manually clear the old product keys using the ospp.vbs script, or contact Microsoft Support for further assistance.
Do I have to pay to go back to Office 2016?
No. Office 2016 is a one-time purchase. As long as you own the license, you can uninstall the Microsoft 365 trial and reinstall Office 2016 completely for free.
