Uninstall & Reinstall Issues

How to Stop Microsoft 365 Free Trial Prompts at Windows Startup

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user continuously receives a Microsoft 365 free-trial prompt every time they start or restart their Windows computer, despite selecting the option to not show it again.

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Starting or restarting a Windows computer.
Observed behavior: A Microsoft 365 trial prompt launches automatically upon system startup and ignores the user's preference to dismiss it permanently.

Before you start

Ensure you are logged into your Windows computer with an administrator account so you have the necessary permissions to uninstall applications and modify startup settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Uninstall the Microsoft 365 Trial Version

The most effective way to stop the startup prompts is to completely remove the pre-installed Microsoft 365 trial software from your system.

Many new Windows computers come with a pre-installed trial version of Microsoft 365. Removing this software entirely will stop the system from triggering the free-trial prompt at startup.

Open Windows Settings

Click the Windows Start button and select 'Settings' (the gear icon), or press the Windows key + I on your keyboard.

Navigate to Installed Apps

Click on 'Apps' from the left-hand menu, then select 'Installed apps' or 'Apps & features' depending on your Windows version.

Locate Microsoft 365

Scroll down the list or use the search bar at the top to find 'Microsoft 365' or 'Microsoft Office'.

Uninstall the Software

Click the three dots (or right-click) next to the application and select 'Uninstall'. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the removal process.

Restart Required: After successfully uninstalling the software, restart your computer to verify that the free-trial prompts no longer appear.

Solution 2

Disable Leftover Office Components in Startup Settings

If the main application is uninstalled but prompts persist, leftover startup components might be triggering the popup.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for a Free, Subscription-Free Experience

If you are tired of constant subscription prompts and want a powerful office suite without the recurring costs, WPS Office is the perfect alternative. It is lightweight, completely free for basic use, and highly compatible with all your existing Microsoft Office files.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the 'Free Download' button.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded executable file and follow the quick installation wizard.
3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office and start creating or editing your documents immediately without any subscription prompts.

No annoying trial pop-ups or forced subscription requirements at startup.Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx).Lightweight installation that will not slow down your computer's startup time.Familiar tabbed user interface, making your transition seamless and effortless.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Microsoft 365 keep prompting me to start a free trial?

New Windows computers often come with a pre-installed trial of Microsoft 365. The system is designed by default to prompt you to activate it or start a subscription upon system startup.

Will uninstalling Microsoft 365 delete my personal files?

No, uninstalling the Microsoft 365 application only removes the software itself. Your personal documents, spreadsheets, and presentations saved on your local drive will remain completely untouched.

How do I open my existing Word and Excel files after uninstalling Microsoft 365?

You can use a free office suite alternative like WPS Office, which natively supports standard Microsoft formats such as .docx and .xlsx, allowing you to open, edit, and save your existing files without a subscription.

Installation & Activation