How to Open @Mention Email Links in Word Desktop Instead of Web
Question details
Users want to configure @mention email notification links to open shared documents directly in the Word desktop application rather than defaulting to Word for the web.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Clicking an @mention link in an email notification to review a document comment.
- Observed behavior
- The @mention link automatically opens the document in Word for the web, requiring manual steps to switch to the desktop application.
Ensure you are signed in to both Outlook and your Microsoft Word desktop application using the exact same work or school account associated with the shared document.
Switch to Desktop App from Word for the Web
Since the notification link itself cannot always be configured to bypass the browser, you can use the built-in option to transition smoothly from the web to your desktop app.
Currently, Microsoft 365 @mention notification links are designed to default to Word for the web for quick browser access. While you cannot permanently change this specific link behavior directly from the email, you can easily open the file in the desktop app once the browser launches.
Open your email notification in Outlook and click the @mention link. The document will initially open in your default web browser using Word for the web.
Once the document loads in the browser, look at the ribbon menu at the top of the screen and find the 'Editing' or 'Viewing' dropdown button.
Click the dropdown and select 'Open in Desktop App'. The browser will prompt you to allow opening the associated application. Click 'Allow' or 'Open Microsoft Word' to continue editing locally.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Collaboration
If you want to avoid forced browser redirects and prefer working directly in a dedicated desktop application, WPS Office offers a powerful, lightweight, and completely free alternative to Microsoft Word.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website to download the free WPS Office installer and follow the quick setup wizard.
- 2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Writer and seamlessly open any existing .docx files directly from your local drive or cloud storage.
- 3. Collaborate Effortlessly: Use the built-in sharing and commenting features to collaborate with your team entirely within the desktop application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I force all Microsoft 365 links to open in the desktop app?
Yes, in the Outlook desktop app settings (File > Options > Advanced > Link Handling), you can check the box for 'Open supported hyperlinks to Microsoft 365 files in Office desktop apps' to ensure standard document links open locally instead of the browser.
Why does my document open in read-only mode after switching to the desktop app?
This typically happens if the document is protected, opened from a location deemed unsafe by Protected View, or if your Office subscription is inactive. Click 'Enable Editing' in the yellow banner at the top of the document to proceed.
Does WPS Office support @mention comments in shared documents?
Yes, WPS Office includes a comprehensive commenting system where you can tag collaborators and communicate effectively within shared cloud documents.
