How to Verify Whether Office 2021 Professional Plus Is Genuine
Question details
The user wants to confirm if their installed Microsoft Office 2021 Professional Plus uses a legitimate, genuine product key, rather than just checking if it is activated.
- Product
- Microsoft Office 2021 Professional Plus
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Verifying software authenticity and licensing source to ensure the product key is not a counterfeit or illegally resold volume license.
- Observed behavior
- The user needs to differentiate between a simple software activation status and true license authenticity, especially given the risks associated with volume-licensed versions.
Gather your purchase receipt, seller details, and any licensing documentation to cross-reference with official Microsoft retail policies.
Check the Activation Status in an Office App
Verify if Microsoft servers recognize the software as activated on your device.
While an 'Activated' status confirms the software is currently working, it does not guarantee the key was obtained legally. Office Professional Plus is primarily distributed through corporate volume licensing. If a third-party seller illegally resells these keys to consumers, they may eventually be blocked by Microsoft.
Open Microsoft Word or Excel and create a blank document.
Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of the ribbon menu, then select 'Account' from the left-hand sidebar.
Look under the 'Product Information' section on the right side of the screen. You should see 'Product Activated' along with the specific version, such as 'Microsoft Office LTSC Professional Plus 2021'.
Verify the Seller and Purchase Documentation
Determine authenticity by reviewing where and how the license was purchased.
Switch to WPS Office to Avoid Licensing Issues
Stop worrying about fake product keys, software deactivations, and expensive Microsoft Office licenses. WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and user-friendly alternative with complete format compatibility for all your document needs.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office installer.
- 2. Install and launch: Run the installer and launch WPS Office on your computer.
- 3. Open your files: Drag and drop your existing Microsoft Office files into WPS Office to continue editing seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if Microsoft detects a fake product key?
Microsoft may display a 'This copy of Microsoft Office is not genuine' warning, block future security updates, or completely deactivate the software, which restricts you to a read-only mode where editing is disabled.
Can I legally buy Office Professional Plus 2021 as a home user?
Typically, Office Professional Plus is restricted to enterprise volume licensing. Home users are usually directed to purchase Microsoft 365 or Office Home & Student. If a vendor sells Professional Plus directly to a consumer, it may be in violation of Microsoft's licensing terms.
How do I report counterfeit Microsoft software?
You can report counterfeit software and unauthorized sellers directly to Microsoft through their official 'How to Tell' website by submitting a counterfeit software report.
Does a successful activation mean my software is 100% legal?
No. A leaked volume license key might successfully activate your software initially, but if you are not an employee of the organization the license was issued to, using it is against licensing agreements and subject to revocation.
