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How to Uninstall Microsoft 365 Trial and Keep Office 2021
Question details
The user wants to safely remove the preinstalled Microsoft 365 trial software from a new laptop without deleting their active Office 2021 installation.
- Product
- Microsoft Office
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Setting up a new laptop and removing unwanted preinstalled trial software.
- Observed behavior
- The device contains both a Microsoft 365 trial and Office 2021, leading to overlapping applications or unwanted prompts to purchase a subscription.
Make sure all Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) are fully closed before beginning the uninstallation process.
Uninstall Microsoft 365 via the Control Panel
Use the classic Windows Control Panel to specifically target and remove the Microsoft 365 trial while leaving your Office 2021 installation intact.
This is the most reliable method to ensure you are selecting the correct version of Office to uninstall, as it lists all installed programs clearly with their full names.
Click the Windows Start button, type 'Control Panel' into the search bar, and press Enter to open the app.
Under the 'Programs' heading, click the 'Uninstall a program' link to view all software installed on your computer.
Scroll through the list and locate 'Microsoft 365' or the preinstalled Office trial. Be very careful not to select your 'Microsoft Office 2021' installation.
Right-click the Microsoft 365 trial entry and choose 'Uninstall'. Follow the on-screen uninstaller prompts to remove the software completely.
Uninstall via Windows Settings (Apps & Features)
You can also use the modern Windows Settings menu to remove the trial version of Microsoft 365 safely.
Avoid Subscription Prompts with WPS Office
If you are tired of dealing with confusing Microsoft Office versions, overlapping installations, and constant subscription pop-ups, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a completely free, highly compatible alternative that covers all your document needs.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Navigate to the official WPS website and click the free download button for Windows.
- 2. Run the Installer: Open the downloaded setup file and follow the straightforward prompts to install the suite.
- 3. Enjoy Editing: Instantly open all your existing Office documents and start working without any subscription worries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will uninstalling Microsoft 365 delete my saved documents?
No, uninstalling the Microsoft 365 application only removes the software files. Your personal documents, spreadsheets, and presentations are saved locally or in your cloud storage and will not be affected.
Why did my new laptop come with a Microsoft 365 trial?
Many laptop manufacturers partner with Microsoft to include a preinstalled trial of Microsoft 365 on new devices to encourage users to eventually purchase a subscription plan.
What should I do if my Office 2021 stops working after I remove the trial?
In rare instances, removing the trial might disrupt shared system files. You can fix this easily by going to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program, right-clicking on your 'Office 2021' installation, selecting 'Change', and running a 'Quick Repair'.
