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Microsoft Office Compatibility with macOS Big Sur on Older MacBooks
Question details
The user needs to determine whether Microsoft Office 2021 or Microsoft 365 is compatible with macOS Big Sur (11.7.10) on an older MacBook Air, and whether purchasing a new computer is necessary after their educational account expired.
- Product
- Microsoft Office for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS Big Sur 11.7.10 (2014 MacBook Air)
- Scenario
- Choosing and installing a compatible version of Microsoft Office after an educational license expires on an older Mac.
- Observed behavior
- The current Office installation has expired, prompting the user to identify the correct Office license and compatible software version for an older macOS.
Verify your current macOS version by clicking the Apple menu and selecting 'About This Mac' to confirm you are running macOS Big Sur.
Download and Activate Office for Mac Version 16.77
Install the final compatible version of Microsoft Office for macOS Big Sur without needing to purchase a new computer.
If your MacBook Air is running macOS Big Sur, you do not need to buy a new computer. You can install a legacy build of Microsoft Office that fully supports this operating system.
Buy a Microsoft 365 Personal subscription or an Office 2021 perpetual license through the official Microsoft store.
Locate and download the Microsoft Office for Mac version 16.77 installer, which is the last officially supported release for macOS Big Sur.
Run the installer package, then launch Microsoft Word. Sign in with the Microsoft account associated with your newly purchased license to activate the software.
Compare Microsoft 365 and Office 2021 Options
Select the best licensing option based on your device usage and budget preferences.
Use WPS Office on Your Older Mac for Free
Avoid expensive subscriptions and compatibility headaches on your 2014 MacBook Air. WPS Office is a free, lightweight, and fully compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that runs smoothly on older macOS versions.
- 1. Download WPS Office for Mac: Visit the official WPS website and download the macOS version.
- 2. Install the Application: Open the downloaded .dmg file and drag the WPS Office icon to your Applications folder.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and immediately open your existing Microsoft Office files with full compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a new computer to use Microsoft Office on macOS Big Sur?
No, you do not need a new computer. You can continue using your 2014 MacBook Air by installing Office for Mac version 16.77, which is fully compatible with macOS Big Sur.
Will Office for Mac version 16.77 receive updates?
Version 16.77 is the final supported release for macOS Big Sur. While it will continue to function normally, it will no longer receive new features or security updates.
Can I use Office 2021 on multiple devices?
No, Office 2021 provides a perpetual license for only one device. If you need multi-device support, consider a Microsoft 365 subscription, which covers up to five devices.
What should I do if my university Office account expires?
Once your university account is closed, your Office software will expire. You will need to purchase a personal license, such as Microsoft 365 or Office 2021, and activate it using your personal Microsoft account.
