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How to Download Microsoft Project Desktop (CLASSIC version that uses .mpp files)

Anonymous
2025-06-09T21:51:50+00:00

Hi. I want to download Microsoft Project Desktop (CLASSIC version that uses .mpp files) to my laptop running my Windows 11 Home. If there's a trial version then I'd prefer to download that first. I'd also like to know associated license costs.

Thanks!

Microsoft 365 and Office | Project | For business | Windows

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John Project 49,705 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
2025-06-10T18:50:07+00:00

AdrianBall3,

If I may add a comment. No, Project Plan 3 (now Planner and Project Plan 3) is not equivalent to Project Standard but the Project Online desktop client which is included with Planner and Project Plan 3 is functionally equivalent as noted in Jay-Tr's opening remarks.

What you tested previously was most likely Project for the Web, which can be described as "watered down" version of Project.

As far as the latest version, yes it is Project 2024. You might want to see my response to this thread: https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/msoffice/forum/all/how-do-i-buy-ms-project/0c06f2ef-a56e-4d55-83e2-08b154a64460

John

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  1. John Project 49,705 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2025-06-12T13:21:55+00:00

    AdrianBall3,

    I'm glad you got it working but I'd be leery about the "unlicensed product". That just doesn't sound very copacetic.

    John

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  2. Anonymous
    2025-06-12T01:36:59+00:00

    I signed up for a Planner and Project trial which allowed me to download Project Standard (Unlicensed Product) to my laptop. I finally have the product I’ve been looking for. Thanks.

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  3. Anonymous
    2025-06-09T23:48:13+00:00

    Thanks.

    So you’re saying Project 3 is functionally equivalent to Project Standard? I need to build a ~500 activity schedule with WBS IDs, durations, start/finish dates, predecessors/successors, assigned resources with hourly rates and be able to track task % completes.

    The reason I’m asking is I believe I tried Project 3 or 5 about a year ago and remember it being an extremely watered down version of the MS Project desktop version I used years ago that utilized .mpp files and supported the functionalities I listed above. From what I’ve read online, those functionalities are only supported by Project Standard and Project Professional. I don’t need Project Professional’s collaboration functionality which is why I’m thinking I need Project Standard.

    Isn’t the latest version of Project standard 2024? You specify 2021 in your response.

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  4. Anonymous
    2025-06-09T23:01:23+00:00

    Dear Adrian, 

    Good day to you! Thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Community. 

    To download the Microsoft Project Desktop (classic version) that supports .mpp files on your Windows 11 Home laptop, you can begin with a free trial of Project Plan 3. This plan includes the Project Online Desktop Client, which is the classic app you're looking for. 

    How to Get the Trial 

    1. Visit the official Microsoft Project page: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/project/compare-microsoft-project-management-software
    2. Select Project Plan 3 and click “Free trial”.
    3. Sign in with your Microsoft account and follow the prompts to begin your trial.

    Installation Steps 

    Once your trial is active: 

    1. Go to microsoft365.com and sign in.
    2. Click Install apps > Other install options.
    3. Select Project from the list and follow the installation instructions.

    Licensing Costs (Post-Trial) 

    • Project Plan 3: Approximately $30 USD per user/month.
    • Project Plan 5: Approximately $55 USD per user/month, includes advanced portfolio management features.

    Alternatively, if you prefer a one-time purchase, you can consider: 

    • Project Standard 2021 or Project Professional 2021, typically priced between $620 and $1,130 USD, depending on the edition and vendor.

    If you need help choosing between subscription and perpetual licensing, or assistance with installation, feel free to ask. 

    Best regards, 

    Jay-Tr - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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