install 365 on new computer that has the free version already on it

Question

I am trying to move my Office 365 from my computer Win 10 to a new computer Win 11. On the new computer there is my wifes free version of 365 and mine will not override her copy. What is the solution?

Answer 1

Hi Robert McAreavey

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A Forum. Thank you for reaching out and sharing your issue.

I completely understand how important it is to smoothly transition your Microsoft 365 subscription to your new computer without disrupting your wife’s setup. The "free version" is likely either a pre-installed Office trial or the free web version of Office, it doesn’t override or automatically switch to your paid subscription, which is why you’re seeing conflicts.

Option 1: If you're comfortable using a shared Windows user account but want to access your own Microsoft 365 subscription, you can simply sign in to Office with your Microsoft account.

• Open any Office app (e.g., Word or Excel) > Click your profile icon in the top-right corner > Add an account > Enter your Microsoft 365 account credentials.
• To switch between accounts: Click your profile icon > Select the desired account from the list of signed-in accounts.

Please note: Office will recognize and activate your subscription. Many accounts can remain stored, and you can switch between them, but only one will control the license at a time.

Option 2: If both you and your wife use Office regularly on the same computer, the better long-term solution is to set up separate Windows user profiles. Each of you will have your own desktop environment, files, and independently activated Office experience, no license conflicts. 

• Press Windows + I to open Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add account then sign in with your Microsoft 365 account. 
• Press Ctrl + Alt + Del > Switch user to log into your new account. 
• Sign in https://account.microsoft.com/services with your Microsoft account (the one with the paid subscription) > click Install.
• After installing, open Word or Excel, sign in with your Microsoft account to activate your subscription.

I hope the details provided will assist you effectively. If you need further assistance, please feel free to reach out.

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