How to install Word on any device (and activate it)

To install Microsoft Word, pick your version (Microsoft 365 subscription, one-time Office/Word license, or Word for the web), then install from your Microsoft account (PC/Mac) or from your phone’s official app store (iPhone/Android). Below are the quickest safe paths.

Table of contents

Choose how you want to use Word

1) Microsoft 365 (subscription)
Best if you need updates, cloud sync, and multiple devices. You install Word after signing in with the Microsoft account that owns the subscription.

2) One-time purchase (Office/Word license)
Best if you prefer “buy once” for desktop apps. You still install from the Microsoft account where that license is attached.

3) Word for the web (no install)
Good for basic editing in a browser—handy on work PCs or Chromebooks.

Avoid “free Word download” websites. If you didn’t install from your Microsoft account or an official app store, the risk of fake installers and malware is high.

Install Word on Windows 11/10

  1. Check your account and license
    Go to your Microsoft account → Services & subscriptions. Confirm you see Microsoft 365 or your Office/Word purchase.

  2. Download the installer
    From the same page, choose Install (or Install apps). Save the setup file.

  3. Run setup
    Open the downloaded installer and allow Windows to make changes if prompted. Wait until installation completes.

  4. Activate Word
    Open Start → Word. Sign in with the same Microsoft account that owns the license. If activation doesn’t happen, sign out in Word and sign back in.

If you have an older Office version or a 32/64-bit mismatch, the fastest fix is usually: uninstall old Office → restart → install again.

Install Word on Mac

  1. Sign in to your Microsoft account → Services & subscriptions
    Find your Microsoft 365 or one-time Office/Word license.

  2. Download and install
    Open the installer package from Downloads and complete the installation steps.

  3. Activate
    Launch Microsoft Word and sign in with the licensing account.

Install Word on iPhone/iPad (iOS)

  1. Open the App Store and search for Microsoft Word (or the Microsoft 365 app, which includes Word).
  2. Tap Get/Install, then open the app.
  3. Sign in with your Microsoft account to unlock licensed features and sync files.

Install Word on Android

  1. Open Google Play and search for Microsoft Word (or Microsoft 365).
  2. Tap Install (or Update).
  3. Open the app and sign in with the Microsoft account tied to your subscription/license.

Common mistakes

  • Signed into the wrong Microsoft account: the #1 reason there’s no “Install” button or activation fails. Double-check email/tenant/work vs personal account.
  • Work/school device restrictions: some organizations block installs; you may need admin permission or the company portal.
  • Old Office leftovers: partial/unfinished installs can break setup. Uninstall, reboot, then reinstall.
  • Network/security software interference: VPN, firewall, or antivirus can stall downloads—pause them temporarily and retry.

FAQ

Can I install Word on multiple devices?
Yes—Microsoft 365 typically allows installing on multiple devices, but activation/sign-in limits still apply per account.

Do I need a product key?
Only for certain retail purchases. If you have a key, you must redeem it to your Microsoft account first; after that, installation is done from Services & subscriptions.

Is Word free?
Word for the web is free with a Microsoft account (basic features). Desktop Word and premium mobile features usually require a license or Microsoft 365 subscription.