Launch the desktop version of Office 365 on Windows 11

Microsoft 365 (office.com/setup) offers powerful desktop applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and more. If you’ve purchased a subscription and want to install or launch Office apps on your Windows 11 device, the process is simple. This step-by-step guide will walk you through installation, activation, and launching the desktop version of Microsoft 365—starting from office.com/setup.

1. Sign In and Set Up Your Microsoft 365 Subscription

Before installing or launching Office apps, make sure your subscription is activated.

• Open your web browser and go to office.com/setup.

• Sign in using your Microsoft account (the one linked to your subscription).

• Enter your product key (if you have one).

• Complete the on-screen setup process to link the subscription to your account.

• This step ensures your Microsoft 365 license syncs correctly across your devices.

2. Download Microsoft 365 Installer

Once your subscription is set up, proceed to download the installer.

• After signing in at office.com, click Install apps located at the top-right corner.

• Choose Microsoft 365 apps from the dropdown.

• The installer file (usually Setup.exe or OfficeSetup.exe) will download automatically.

3. Install Microsoft 365 on Windows 11

Windows 11 supports seamless installation of Microsoft 365 desktop apps.

• Locate the downloaded installer file in your Downloads folder.

• Double-click the file to begin installation.

• Wait while the Office installer prepares and installs the apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).

• When installation finishes, select Close.

• The process may take a few minutes depending on your system and internet speed.

4. Launch the Desktop Version of Office 365 Apps

Now that Microsoft 365 is installed, launching the desktop apps is simple.

• Method 1: Using the Start Menu

• Click the Start button (Windows icon).

• Type the name of the app, such as Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.

• Click the app to open it.

• Method 2: From the Windows 11 App List

• Click Start → All apps.

• Scroll to the section titled Microsoft Office tools or directly to the app name.

• Select the desired app to launch.

5. Sign In to Activate Office Apps

When you open a Microsoft 365 desktop app for the first time, you may be asked to sign in.

• Enter the same Microsoft account you used at office.com/setup.

• Once signed in, activation will complete automatically.

• This ensures full access to all Microsoft 365 features, cloud storage, and synced settings.

6. Keep Microsoft 365 Updated

Microsoft 365 updates automatically, but you can manually check for updates.

• Open any Office app (e.g., Excel).

• Go to File → Account.

• Under Product Information, click Update Options → Update Now.