Fix Planner Project Plan License in Microsoft 365 on Windows

This guide walks you through license & subscription issues using Microsoft-supported steps first, with WPS only where it genuinely helps.

Problem Description: Planner Project Plan License

Hello, We are using a Microsoft 365 GCC tenant and currently have a Planner and Project Plan 3 license assigned. However, we are unable to open `.mpp` files. The only application available to us is the Planner app; there is no Project application accessible. Based on our research, the Planner and Project Plan 3 license does not include the Project desktop client, and it appears that Project Plan 3 by itself is insufficient in our GCC tenant to open `.mpp` files. How can we open .mpp files? Do we need an additional license? Thank you

Quick Answer for Resolving License

To open .mpp files, you need the Microsoft Project Online Desktop Client, which is not included with Planner and Project Plan 3 licenses.

Likely Causes Behind License & Subscription Issues

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger license & subscription issues.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Installing Office on a New PC

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. Project Plan 3 only provides access to Project for the web.

2. Acquire a Project Plan 5 license, which includes the Project Online Desktop Client, to open and work with .mpp files on your GCC tenant.

Alternative Solutions for When Office Still Fails

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: WPS Office for Local Document Work

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Safer Login Habits

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Register more than one MFA method and keep recovery contacts current.

Use Word, Excel, and PPT for FREE

Free Download

FAQs About Common License Answers

Can WPS Office fix this license & subscription issues issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Office before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.