Find Out What Version of Office You Have

Articles / By /

Learn how to identify which version of Microsoft Office you have installed on your computer. Get the latest updates and find out more about the latest Office software

What version of office do I have?

We understand the importance of having the correct version of Office installed on your computer to ensure the smooth running of your work. In this article, we will guide you on how to identify the version of Office installed on your computer and explain the different types of Office versions available.

Firstly, to determine which version of Office is installed on your computer, you can follow these simple steps. Open any Office application, such as Word or Excel, and click on the ‘File’ tab in the top left corner of the screen. From there, click on ‘Account’ and then ‘About [application name].’ This will display the version number and type of Office installed on your computer.

Now that you know how to identify the version of Office installed on your computer, let’s dive into the different types of Office versions available. Microsoft Office offers a variety of versions to cater to the needs of different users.

The first and most common version is Microsoft 365. This is a subscription-based service that includes all the latest versions of Office applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, as well as other services such as OneDrive and Teams. Microsoft 365 is the best option for individuals and businesses that require regular updates and access to the latest features.

The second version is Office 2019. This is a one-time purchase option that includes the latest versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Office 2019 is a good choice for individuals and businesses that do not require regular updates and can afford a one-time payment.

The third version is Office 2016. This is another one-time purchase option that includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Office 2016 is ideal for individuals and businesses that require basic Office applications and do not need the latest features.

The fourth version is Office Online. This is a free version of Office that is accessible through a web browser. Office Online includes basic versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. This version is ideal for individuals who need basic Office applications and have access to the internet.

Now that we have gone through the different types of Office versions available, it is essential to note that each version has different system requirements. Before purchasing or installing any version of Office, it is crucial to check that your computer meets the system requirements to avoid any compatibility issues.

In conclusion, identifying the version of Office installed on your computer is crucial to ensure the smooth running of your work. Microsoft Office offers a range of versions to cater to the needs of different users, including Microsoft 365, Office 2019, Office 2016, and Office Online. Each version has different system requirements, so it is essential to check that your computer meets the requirements before purchasing or installing any version.

We hope that this article has been informative and has helped you understand the different types of Office versions available. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

FAQ

How can I find out which version of Microsoft Office I have?

If you’re not sure which version of Microsoft Office you’re using, don’t worry – there are a few easy ways to find out. Here are three methods:

    1. Open an Office application and check the version number:

To find out which version of Office you have installed, you can open any Office application (such as Word, Excel, or PowerPoint) and click on the “File” tab. From there, select “Account” and look for the “Product Information” section. Here, you’ll see the version and build number of Office that you’re using. This method works for Office 2010 and newer.

      • The version number will tell you whether you have Office 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, or 365.
      • The build number is a specific identifier for the version of Office that you have installed.
      • If you’re using Office 365, you may also see the release channel (such as “Current” or “Semi-Annual”).
    2. Check the Programs and Features list in Control Panel:

If you’re using Windows and you’re not able to open an Office application, you can also check the Programs and Features list in Control Panel. Here’s how:

      • Open the Start menu and type “Control Panel.”
      • Open Control Panel and select “Programs and Features.”
      • Look for “Microsoft Office” in the list of installed programs. The version number will be listed next to it.
    2. Check the About section in an Office app on a Mac:

If you’re using a Mac, you can check the About section in any Office application to find out which version you have. Here’s how:

    • Open an Office application, such as Word.
    • Click on the application name in the menu bar at the top of the screen (e.g. “Word”).
    • Select “About Word” (or the name of the application you’re using).
    • The version number will be displayed in the About window.

What’s the difference between Office 365 and other versions of Office?

Office 365 is a subscription-based version of Microsoft Office that is constantly updated with new features and improvements. Here are three key differences between Office 365 and other versions of Office:

    1. Payment model:

Office 365 is a subscription-based service, which means you pay a monthly or yearly fee to use it. Other versions of Office are typically sold as a one-time purchase, although there are some exceptions (such as Office 2019 Home & Student, which is a one-time purchase for personal use only).

    1. Updates:

Office 365 is constantly updated with new features and improvements, whereas other versions of Office only receive security and stability updates. This means that if you want access to the latest and greatest features in Office, you’ll need to use Office 365.

    1. Cloud-based features:

Office 365 includes several cloud-based features, such as OneDrive cloud storage and collaboration tools like real-time co-authoring. These features aren’t available in other versions of Office (unless you’re using OneDrive separately).

Can I upgrade from an older version of Office to a newer one?

Yes, you can upgrade from an older version of Office to a newer one. However, the upgrade process will depend on which versions you’re upgrading from and to. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

    1. Upgrading from Office 2010 or earlier:

If you’re using Office 2010 or an earlier version, you’ll need to purchase a new version of Office to upgrade. This is because these versions are no longer supported by Microsoft and do not receive updates or security patches. You can purchase a newer version of Office (such as Office 2019 or Office 365) from Microsoft’s website or from a licensed retailer.

    1. Upgrading from Office 2013 or later:

If you’re using Office 2013 or later, you may be able to upgrade to a newer version for free (or at a discounted price). This will depend on which version you’re upgrading to and whether you have an active Office 365 subscription. To check whether you’re eligible for an upgrade, visit the Microsoft website or contact customer support.

    1. Considerations for upgrading:

Before you upgrade to a newer version of Office, there are a few things to consider. For example, some older versions of Office may not be compatible with newer versions of Windows or macOS. Additionally, some features or add-ins may not be available in newer versions of Office. Make sure to research the differences between your current version of Office and the one you’re considering upgrading to before making a decision.

What happens if I don’t upgrade to a newer version of Office?

If you don’t upgrade to a newer version of Office, you may miss out on new features and improvements that can make your work easier and more efficient. Additionally, older versions of Office may not receive security updates or patches, which can leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks and other security threats. Here are three things to keep in mind if you’re considering sticking with an older version of Office:

    1. Compatibility issues:

As technology continues to advance, older versions of Office may not be compatible with newer operating systems, devices, or software. This means that you may experience compatibility issues or errors when trying to use an older version of Office on a newer system.

    1. Limited support:

Microsoft typically provides support for its products for a certain period of time after they’re released. After this support period ends, Microsoft may no longer provide updates or patches for that product. This means that if you’re using an older version of Office, you may be on your own when it comes to troubleshooting issues or fixing bugs.

    1. Security risks:

Using an older version of Office can also pose security risks. As cybercriminals continue to develop new techniques and tactics, older software and operating systems may become more vulnerable to attacks. This means that if you’re using an older version of Office, you may be at a higher risk of data breaches, viruses, and other security threats.