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Fix Microsoft 365 Cannot Be Installed on macOS Big Sur 11.7.10
Question details
The user is unable to install Microsoft 365 on a Mac running macOS Big Sur 11.7.10 due to operating system compatibility limitations.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS Big Sur 11.7.10
- Scenario
- Attempting to download and install the Microsoft 365 application on an older version of the Mac operating system.
- Observed behavior
- The installation is blocked and an error message appears stating the operating system is no longer within Microsoft's supported range.
Verify your exact Mac model year and current macOS version by clicking the Apple menu and selecting 'About This Mac' to determine if an OS upgrade is physically possible for your machine.
Upgrade Your Mac to a Supported macOS Version
Since Microsoft 365 only supports the three latest major macOS releases, updating your Mac to a newer operating system will resolve the installation block.
Microsoft aligns its update cycle with Apple, ensuring Microsoft 365 is only available on the three most recent macOS versions for security and performance reasons. Because macOS Big Sur is out of this support window, the software cannot be installed natively unless the OS is updated.
Click the Apple menu icon in the top-left corner of your Mac screen and select 'System Preferences'.
Click on 'Software Update'. Your Mac will automatically check if a newer macOS version (such as Monterey, Ventura, or Sonoma) is available for your hardware.
If an update is available, click 'Upgrade Now' and follow the on-screen instructions to install the new operating system.
Once your Mac reboots into the new macOS, go to your Microsoft account online and download the Microsoft 365 installer again.
Use WPS Office as a Lightweight Alternative for Older Macs
If your Mac cannot be upgraded past macOS Big Sur and Microsoft 365 fails to install, WPS Office is the perfect solution. It is a highly compatible, free, and lightweight Office suite that features a familiar user interface, allowing for seamless migration without needing to buy a new computer.
- 1. Download the Mac Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for macOS.
- 2. Install the Application: Open the downloaded .dmg file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Microsoft Office files directly to continue working.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft 365 stop supporting older macOS versions like Big Sur?
Microsoft officially supports only the three most recent major macOS releases. When Apple releases a new macOS version, the oldest of the three loses Microsoft support to ensure the suite maintains optimal security, performance, and modern feature integration.
Can I download an older, compatible version of Microsoft 365 for macOS Big Sur?
Yes, you can download a historical installer (specifically version 16.77) from Microsoft's update history page. However, this version will no longer receive security updates or new features, so using it carries potential security risks.
How do I check if my Mac can be upgraded beyond macOS Big Sur?
You can check Apple's official compatibility list online for macOS Monterey or Ventura. Generally, MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models from 2015 and later support newer OS versions, while older models are officially capped at Big Sur.
