How to Switch Microsoft 365 Office from Semi-Annual to Current Channel
Question details
The user wants to change the Microsoft 365 Office update channel from the Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel to the Current Channel to receive updates more frequently.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Upgrading or changing the update frequency and feature rollout schedule for Microsoft 365 Office applications.
- Observed behavior
- Microsoft 365 is currently restricted to the Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel, delaying new features, and the user wishes to switch to the faster Current Channel release cycle.
Verify whether you have administrator privileges for your organization's Microsoft 365 account, as standard users cannot independently change update channels.
Change Update Channel via Microsoft 365 Admin Center
Administrators can quickly adjust the software download settings for the entire organization directly from the admin center.
This is the most straightforward method for organizations that do not rely on complex Group Policy rules. It requires global or user administrator rights.
Navigate to the Microsoft 365 admin center in your web browser and log in with your administrator credentials.
In the left-hand navigation pane, click on 'Show all', then expand 'Settings' and select 'Org settings'.
Click on the 'Services' tab, and then choose 'Microsoft 365 software download settings' from the list.
Under the update channel options, switch the selection from 'Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel' to 'Current Channel'.
Click 'Save' at the bottom. The new update channel policies will apply to users during their next automatic update cycle.
Request IT Support for Office Deployment Tool Update
Standard users must request the change from their IT department, who can use the Office Deployment Tool (ODT) to reconfigure the channel.
Avoid Complex Update Management with WPS Office
Tired of dealing with complex update channels, deployment tools, and admin permissions just to get the latest features? WPS Office offers a lightweight, free alternative to Microsoft Office that is easy to install, updates seamlessly, and supports all major Office formats without requiring IT intervention.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the 'Free Download' button.
- 2. Run the Setup: Open the downloaded installation file and follow the simple on-screen instructions.
- 3. Start Creating: Launch WPS Office to instantly open, edit, and save your existing Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Semi-Annual Enterprise and Current Channel?
The Current Channel provides users with the newest features as soon as they are ready. In contrast, the Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel rolls out feature updates only twice a year, which is favored by large organizations that require extensive testing before deployment.
Can a standard user change the Microsoft 365 update channel?
No, standard users typically do not have the required administrative permissions to change the update channel. If your device is managed by an organization, you must contact your Microsoft 365 IT administrator to make this change.
How do I force an Office update after the channel is changed?
Once the administrator has applied the new channel policy, you can force the update by opening any Office application (like Word), navigating to File > Account, clicking on Update Options, and selecting Update Now.
