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License & Subscription Issues

How to Get Microsoft Access 2024 Without an Office 2024 Retail Bundle

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know how to acquire Microsoft Access 2024 because it is excluded from the standard Office 2024 consumer retail editions.

Product
Microsoft Access 2024
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Acquiring Microsoft Access when purchasing the newest Office 2024 release.
Observed behavior
Microsoft Access is not included in the consumer version of Office 2024, leaving users unsure of how to access the database management software.
Before you start

Determine whether your workflow strictly requires a one-time perpetual license or if you prefer an ongoing subscription model that includes regular feature updates for Access.

Solution 1Recommended

Purchase Microsoft Access 2024 Separately

The most direct way to acquire Access without a bundle is to buy it as a standalone perpetual license.

Microsoft allows users to purchase Access 2024 individually. This perpetual license provides the software for a single upfront cost, but note that it will only receive ongoing security updates, not new feature updates.

1
Visit the Microsoft Store

Navigate to the official Microsoft Store website and search for 'Access 2024'.

2
Purchase the standalone application

Add the standalone Microsoft Access 2024 product to your cart and complete the checkout process to tie the license to your Microsoft account.

3
Download and install

Go to the 'Services & subscriptions' section of your Microsoft account dashboard to download and install Access 2024 onto your PC.

Update Limitations: Perpetual licenses like Access 2024 only receive security updates. Feature updates are exclusively available with Microsoft 365.
Free Microsoft Office alternative

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  1. 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the download button to get the free installer.
  2. 2. Install the software: Run the downloaded setup file and follow the quick on-screen instructions to install WPS Office on your computer.
  3. 3. Start working instantly: Open WPS Office to seamlessly create, view, or edit your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Microsoft Access 2024 included in Office Home & Student 2024?

No. The consumer retail versions of Office 2024, such as Home & Student or Home & Business, do not include Microsoft Access. It must be purchased separately.

Will I get new features if I buy the standalone Access 2024?

No. Access 2024 is a perpetual license, meaning it receives necessary security patches but will not receive any ongoing feature updates. New features are reserved for Microsoft 365 subscribers.

Can I use Microsoft Access 2024 on a Mac?

No. Microsoft Access remains a PC-only application. It is not available for macOS, whether purchased standalone or through a Microsoft 365 subscription.

What is the difference between Access 2024 and Access in Microsoft 365?

Access 2024 is a one-time purchase that stays at its current feature set indefinitely. Access via Microsoft 365 is a subscription service that continually receives the newest tools, integrations, and feature updates.