Is Python in Excel Available with Microsoft 365 Business Basic?
Question details
The user is trying to determine if they can use the Python in Excel feature while on a Microsoft 365 Business Basic plan.

- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Checking feature availability and license compatibility for advanced data analysis using Python within Microsoft Excel.
- Observed behavior
- The user needs clarification on whether their current web-based Microsoft 365 subscription includes the necessary desktop features to run Python in Excel.
Verify your current Microsoft 365 subscription tier and ensure you are using a compatible Windows device, as Python in Excel requires specific desktop application support.
Upgrade to a Compatible Microsoft 365 Desktop Plan
Python in Excel is not available on Microsoft 365 Business Basic because it requires the Windows desktop version of Excel. Upgrading to a premium plan resolves this limitation.
Microsoft 365 Business Basic only provides access to web versions of Office applications. The Python in Excel feature relies on the Excel for Windows desktop application to function. To access this feature, you must have a supported subscription plan that includes fully installed desktop apps, such as Microsoft 365 Business Premium.
Log in to your Microsoft 365 account dashboard or admin center to view your active subscription details.
Check if your plan includes the rights to download and install the Excel for Windows desktop application.
If you are on a web-only plan like Business Basic, navigate to the billing or subscription management page and upgrade to Microsoft 365 Business Premium or another compatible tier.
Once upgraded, download and install the Microsoft 365 desktop apps on your Windows PC to access Python in Excel.

Try WPS Office for Your Advanced Spreadsheet Needs
If you don't want to pay for an expensive premium subscription just to handle advanced data analysis, WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and powerful alternative. Enjoy full compatibility with Microsoft Excel formats and a highly familiar user interface without the steep costs.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Application: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the lightweight setup process.
- 3. Open Your Spreadsheets: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and open your existing .xlsx files directly to start analyzing your data without any subscription barriers.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Python in Excel on Excel for the web?
No, Python in Excel is not available for Excel for the web. It requires the Excel for Windows desktop application, which is why web-only plans like Microsoft 365 Business Basic do not support it.
Which Microsoft 365 plans support Python in Excel?
Plans that include the desktop version of Excel for Windows, such as Microsoft 365 Business Premium, Microsoft 365 Personal, or Microsoft 365 Family, generally support the feature, subject to Microsoft's rollout schedule.
Is Python in Excel available for Mac users?
At this time, Python in Excel is strictly available for Excel for Windows. Mac users cannot access this feature natively in the Excel for Mac desktop app.
Do I need to install Python locally to use it in Excel?
No, you do not need to install Python on your computer. Python in Excel runs directly via the Microsoft Cloud, meaning the calculations and environments are handled remotely.




