Fix Word Similarity Checker Missing or Disabled in Microsoft 365
Question details
The user is unable to access the Similarity Checker feature in the Microsoft Word desktop application, despite it functioning correctly in Word for the web.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 365
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to check a document for originality or similarity to online sources using the Word desktop application.
- Observed behavior
- The Similarity Checker feature is entirely missing or greyed out in the Word desktop app interface.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection, as the Microsoft Editor and Similarity Checker require online connectivity to compare your document text against web sources.
Verify Microsoft 365 Account and Subscription Status
The Similarity Checker is a premium feature that requires an active Microsoft 365 subscription and the correct account login in the desktop app.
Often, users are signed into the Word desktop app with a different account than the one holding their Microsoft 365 subscription. Verifying your login credentials ensures the premium Editor features are activated.
Launch the Microsoft Word desktop application, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Account' from the bottom-left menu.
Under 'User Information', confirm that the email address listed is the exact Microsoft account associated with your active Microsoft 365 subscription.
Look under 'Product Information' on the right side. It should clearly state 'Subscription Product Microsoft 365 Apps'. If it shows a perpetual license like Office 2019 or 2021, the feature will not be available.
If the account is incorrect or the license needs refreshing, click 'Sign out', restart Word, and click 'Sign in' to enter your correct Microsoft 365 credentials.
Enable Connected Experiences in Word Privacy Settings
Privacy settings that block cloud-based services will prevent the Editor and Similarity Checker from functioning correctly.
Use Word for the Web as a Workaround
If the desktop application continues to experience local syncing or build issues, you can access the Similarity Checker immediately via your browser.
Experience a Seamless and Lightweight Office Suite with WPS Office
If you are frustrated by missing premium features, complicated privacy settings, or subscription requirements in Microsoft Word, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a robust, free, and highly compatible alternative for all your document editing and formatting needs without the hassle.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word documents to continue editing with full format compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Similarity Checker only showing up in Word for the web?
The desktop version of Word requires an active Microsoft 365 subscription and connected cloud experiences to be enabled locally to display premium Editor features. The web version links directly to your cloud account, often bypassing local desktop privacy configurations.
Is the Similarity Checker available in Office 2021 or 2019?
No, the Similarity Checker is a premium feature exclusive to Microsoft 365 subscribers. Perpetual license versions like Office 2019 or Office 2021 do not include this specific cloud-based Editor functionality.
How many similarity checks can I perform in Word?
Microsoft Editor allows you to check for similarity up to 100 times per month per user under an eligible Microsoft 365 personal or family subscription.
What should I do if my Microsoft 365 subscription is active but the feature is still missing?
Ensure your Office applications are fully updated by going to File > Account > Update Options > Update Now. If the feature is still missing, sign out of your account in Word, restart your computer, and sign back in.
