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How to Transfer a Non-Subscription Word and Excel License to a New Mac
Question details
The user needs to move a perpetual (non-subscription) version of Microsoft Word and Excel from an old laptop to a new Mac computer.
- Product
- Microsoft Office
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- Upgrading to a new Apple computer and attempting to retain and migrate existing perpetual software licenses.
- Observed behavior
- The user must reinstall the software on the new Mac and ensure the license activates properly without violating the single-installation requirement.
Ensure your new Mac has a stable internet connection and locate your original Office installation media, your 25-character product key, or the Microsoft account associated with your initial purchase.
Uninstall from the Old Device and Activate on the New Mac
Transfer your perpetual license smoothly by removing the software from your old machine and activating it on the new Mac, utilizing telephone support if the automated system fails.
Non-subscription (perpetual) versions of Microsoft Office are typically limited to one device at a time. To comply with license terms, you must remove the software from the previous computer before completing the activation on the new Mac.
On your old laptop, uninstall Microsoft Office completely. For a Mac, navigate to the Applications folder and drag the Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint applications to the Trash.
Log in to your Microsoft account at office.com on your new Mac, navigate to your Services & Subscriptions page, and download the installer for your purchased version of Office.
Open Word or Excel on the new Mac and sign in with the Microsoft account associated with your license, or enter your original 25-character product key when prompted by the activation wizard.
If you receive an 'Activation Limit Reached' error, select the option to activate by telephone. Ignore the automated prompts to reach a live support representative, and explain that you are transferring the license to a replacement computer.
Avoid Activation Hassles with WPS Office
Tired of dealing with strict license transfers, lost product keys, and frustrating automated phone activations? Switch to WPS Office, a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that works seamlessly across all your Mac and Apple devices without restrictive single-device licensing limits.
- 1. Download the WPS Office installer: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installer specifically designed for macOS.
- 2. Install the application: Open the downloaded setup file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder to complete the installation.
- 3. Open your existing files instantly: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx files with zero formatting loss and no product keys required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I lost the original product key for my non-subscription Office?
If you previously linked your perpetual license to your Microsoft account, you do not need the physical product key. You can download, install, and activate the software directly from the 'Services & subscriptions' section of your Microsoft account dashboard.
Can I keep my non-subscription Word and Excel on both my old and new Mac?
No. Perpetual licenses, such as Office Home & Student or Office Home & Business, are restricted to a single active installation. You are strictly required to uninstall the software from the old computer to use it on a new one.
Why is the automated telephone activation rejecting my transfer?
The automated system often rejects activations if it detects the software was recently installed on another machine. You must stay on the line to speak with a human representative and verbally confirm that the old installation has been removed.
