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How to Close or Remove Microsoft Sway and Return to Word

Khadija Khan Sep 25, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user accidentally opened Microsoft Sway instead of Word and wants to know how to close or uninstall it to get back to a standard blank Word document.

How to Close or Remove Microsoft Sway and Return to Word

Product: Microsoft Sway / Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to write a document but accidentally opening the Microsoft Sway web application instead of Microsoft Word.
Observed behavior: Microsoft Sway opens as a web application in the browser, leading to confusion about how to uninstall it or properly switch back to the desktop Word application.

Before you start

Because Microsoft Sway is a web-based application rather than a traditional desktop program, you do not need to use your computer's uninstaller tool to remove it.

Solution 1Recommended

Close the Sway Web Tab and Open Microsoft Word

Since Sway runs entirely in your web browser, exiting it is as simple as closing the active tab and launching your standard Word application.

Microsoft Sway does not replace Microsoft Word. It is a separate digital storytelling web application included in your Microsoft 365 subscription.

Close the Sway tab

Click the 'X' on the browser tab or window where Microsoft Sway is currently open to exit the application.

Launch Microsoft Word

Open the Microsoft Word desktop application from your Windows Start menu, Mac Applications folder, or taskbar.

Create a blank document

Select 'File' from the top ribbon, click 'New', and choose 'Blank Document' to start writing.

Close the Sway Web Tab and Open Microsoft Word

Sway is not a desktop app: Microsoft Sway does not need to be uninstalled from your local drive because it is hosted online. Simply closing the browser tab removes it from your screen.

Solution 2

Remove or Unpin Sway from the Microsoft 365 App Launcher

If you use Office on the web and keep clicking Sway by mistake, you can manage how it appears in your App Launcher to avoid opening it again.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for a Distraction-Free Desktop Experience

If you find the Microsoft 365 web apps and app launcher confusing, WPS Office offers a straightforward, all-in-one desktop application. WPS Writer provides a classic, familiar interface for word processing without unexpected browser redirects.

1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website to download the free installation package for your Windows, Mac, or Linux operating system.
2. Open WPS Writer: Launch the WPS Office desktop app and click on 'Docs' on the home screen to open WPS Writer, which functions just like Microsoft Word.
3. Start a new document: Click 'Blank' to instantly create a new local document without dealing with web browsers or online portals.

Seamless compatibility with Microsoft Word formats (.docx, .doc)A familiar, classic desktop interface that avoids web-based app confusionFree, lightweight, and incredibly easy to install on your computerBuilt-in PDF editing tools for comprehensive document management

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to uninstall Microsoft Sway from my computer?

No. Microsoft Sway is a web-based application hosted on Microsoft's servers. It is not installed on your local hard drive, so there is no program to uninstall from your Control Panel or System Settings.

Did Microsoft Sway replace my Microsoft Word?

No, Sway and Word are entirely separate applications within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Sway is designed for creating interactive digital presentations, while Word remains your primary tool for traditional word processing.

How do I stop Microsoft Sway from opening automatically?

Sway only opens if you specifically click its shortcut in the Microsoft 365 portal or click a shared Sway link. To avoid opening it, unpin it from your Microsoft 365 App Launcher and make sure you click the blue Word icon instead.

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