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How to Uninstall Microsoft 365 and Install a Non-Subscription Office Version
Question details
The user wants to cancel their recurring Microsoft 365 subscription, remove the associated software, and install a one-time purchase, non-subscription version of Office.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 / Office
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Switching from a subscription-based Microsoft 365 plan to a perpetual license like Office 2021, 2019, or 2016.
- Observed behavior
- The user must ensure the subscription apps are completely uninstalled before activating the new perpetual version to prevent license conflicts and persistent billing.
Ensure you have the product key or Microsoft account credentials linked to your new non-subscription Office version readily available before proceeding with the uninstallation.
Cancel Subscription and Standard Uninstall via Windows Settings
The standard and most direct method to stop billing, remove the subscription software, and install the new perpetual license.
Uninstalling the software from your computer will not automatically cancel your subscription. You must perform both actions separately to avoid being billed in the future.
Navigate to account.microsoft.com/services in your web browser. Sign in, locate your Microsoft 365 subscription, and click 'Cancel subscription' to stop recurring billing.
On your PC, open 'Settings', go to 'Apps', and select 'Installed apps' (or 'Apps & features'). Scroll down to find 'Microsoft 365', click the three dots or the app name, and select 'Uninstall'.
Go to setup.office.com or account.microsoft.com/services, sign in with your Microsoft account, enter your new perpetual product key (if prompted), and follow the on-screen instructions to download and install.
Use the Official Microsoft Office Uninstall Troubleshooter
Ideal if the standard uninstallation leaves behind residual files or registry keys that interfere with the new perpetual Office installation.
Switch to WPS Office: A Free and Lightweight Alternative
If you want to avoid recurring Microsoft 365 subscriptions without paying upfront for a costly one-time license, WPS Office is an excellent solution. It provides a highly familiar interface and powerful tools for completely free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will uninstalling Microsoft 365 delete my existing Word or Excel files?
No, uninstalling Microsoft 365 only removes the application software from your device. Your personal files, documents, and spreadsheets saved on your local hard drive or OneDrive will remain entirely safe and accessible once you install your new Office version.
Can I run Microsoft 365 and Office 2021 on the same computer?
It is highly recommended not to install multiple versions of Office on the same device. Doing so usually causes severe activation conflicts and file association errors. Always thoroughly uninstall Microsoft 365 before attempting to install Office 2021, 2019, or 2016.
What should I do if my new Office installation still asks me to renew a subscription?
If your perpetual Office installation displays subscription renewal prompts, residual Microsoft 365 license files are likely confusing the software. You will need to remove stored Microsoft Office credentials from the Windows Credential Manager and sign back in to activate your perpetual license.
How do I activate my non-subscription Office version after installing?
After the installation is complete, launch any Office application, such as Word or Excel. You will automatically be prompted with an activation screen. Sign in using the exact Microsoft account associated with your perpetual purchase to activate the software.
