Can I use Windows without having to buy Microsoft 365?

The Microsoft millennials simply do not understand that there are users who do not want to store documents or pictures in a cloud (One Drive) that by it's very nature is susceptible to hacking. They also do not understand that some users would rather use programs on their computers vs. programs that are driven by cloud services. They do not realize there are still many places in the world who do not have reliable internet access.

That said, if you happen to own and still have the physical software (CD) for Word, Excel, Access and Powerpoint from the past, like Office 2007 for Student and Home, you can load that software to your computer (even Windows11) and use it, and save your documents on your computer without having to use Microsoft 365 subscription versions. However, you need to be aware that any time you try to open a document directly from File Manager by double-clicking the file, they will try to push you back into Microsoft 365 for a trial, then paid subscription version. So in order to use your old software, you need to first open the program and open your documents after the program is open. It is easier to open them from the OPEN dialog within the program, but once you have the program open, I think you can double click from File Manager and the document should open in the active open program.

You should also be aware that Microsoft no longer supports the old software, so if you have any issues, they will not help resolve them. Also, if there are any new "bells and whistles" in the latest 365 programs, those new tools will not be available to you in the old software.

Greetings, Marina! My name is Arif, and I will assist you today.

No worries, I will do my best to assist and explain at your request. Microsoft Office 365 is different from your operating system. Microsoft Office 365 is a separate software suite that includes Word, Excel, and other applications. Windows 11, on the other hand, is an operating system pre-installed on your HP laptop.

As you mentioned, the free trial of Microsoft Office 365 will expire soon, and if you don't want it, that's perfectly fine. You can continue to use Windows 11 without any issues because they are two separate entities.

Warm Regards,

Arif

I don't think this response is accurate. You can use Word and Excel without purchasing 365. You just cant do it natively on the PC....meaning you have to do it through browser based setup like you do in Chrome with Google products. You sign into your Microsoft acct and then you have to save files to one drive. Once you have them in one drive, as long as you are on browser and logged in, you can open files from One drive and use the web based version of the apps. These versions are more limited than the full versions but functional for most things. As this is possible, it is still easier to have 365 and a much better experience.

You did NOT answer the question. Can we keep Windows 11 and use or purchase Word and Excel separately for continued use without a free trial end date? I only want Windows 11, Word and Excel on my laptop to use forever. Tell me how I can make this happen and keep in mind I am NOT a computer Technician.

You can also buy a standalone copy of Microsoft office 2021 home and student with Excel, Word and PowerPoint. Look for it on line, purchase and download.

Just be aware that it doesn’t get any of the latest updates as it’s a stand alone copy.