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Missing Editing and Comments Tabs in Word LTSC 2021 vs Microsoft 365
Question details
The user is trying to locate the Editing and Comments tabs in Word LTSC Professional Plus 2021, which they observed in a screenshot from another version of Word.
- Product
- Microsoft Word (Office LTSC 2021)
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Comparing Word interfaces and attempting to configure or find specific Editing and Comments tabs.
- Observed behavior
- The expected Editing and Comments tabs are missing from the ribbon in Office LTSC Professional Plus 2021, prompting confusion over whether this is caused by a missing setting.
Verify your exact Microsoft Word version by navigating to File > Account, as interface features vary significantly between perpetual releases and subscription licenses.
Identify and Understand Version Interface Differences
The missing tabs are a result of feature variations between perpetual Office releases (like LTSC 2021) and subscription models (like Microsoft 365), not a configurable setting.
Microsoft 365 receives continuous feature updates and interface redesigns, which can include specialized Editing and Comments panels. In contrast, Office LTSC Professional Plus 2021 is a perpetual release with a locked feature set.
There is no built-in setting to enable the newer Microsoft 365 layout in Office LTSC 2021. What you are seeing online is a fundamental version difference rather than a hidden toggle.
Open Microsoft Word and click on 'File' in the top left corner of the ribbon.
Select 'Account' from the bottom of the left-hand menu and look under 'Product Information' to confirm if your software is Office LTSC Professional Plus 2021 or Microsoft 365.
If you are using Office LTSC 2021, navigate to the standard 'Review' tab on the main ribbon to access your tracking, commenting, and editing features instead of looking for dedicated Microsoft 365 tabs.
Avoid Version Confusion with WPS Office
If Microsoft Office's fragmented versions and subscription models are causing confusion, switch to WPS Office. It provides a unified, highly compatible, and user-friendly interface for all your document processing needs without the subscription hassle.
- 1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office for free from the official website and run the lightweight installer.
- 2. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing .docx files without losing any text formatting or comments.
- 3. Access Review Tools: Click the Review tab on the top ribbon to instantly access a straightforward set of editing, tracking, and commenting tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update Office LTSC 2021 to get the Microsoft 365 interface?
No, Office LTSC 2021 is a perpetual license with a fixed feature set. To get Microsoft 365 interface updates and new UI features, you must purchase an active Microsoft 365 subscription.
Where do I find the commenting tools in Word 2021?
In Word LTSC 2021, commenting and tracking tools are located under the traditional 'Review' tab on the top ribbon, rather than in separate dedicated side-tabs or modern editing panels.
Why does a screenshot online look different from my Word application?
Online screenshots often feature Microsoft 365, which receives constant user interface updates. Perpetual versions like Office LTSC 2021 or Office 2019 retain an older, locked ribbon layout.
