Should I uninstall office 2024 before downloading microsoft 365?

Question

I am about to subscribe to Microsoft 365. Is it unwise to leave Office 2024 installed?

Answer 1

Leaving Office 2024 installed while subscribing to Microsoft 365 is supported, but uninstalling older or different Office versions before installing a new one is recommended to avoid conflicts.

Key points:

1. Multiple versions can coexist in some scenarios, but Microsoft recommends uninstalling older Office versions before installing the latest Microsoft 365 apps to reduce issues with activation, updates, and add-ins.
2. When switching between perpetual Office (such as Office 2024) and Microsoft 365, leftover licensing or components from the old version can cause prompts for the wrong license or missing subscription features.
3. If choosing to remove Office 2024 before installing Microsoft 365, use the standard uninstall steps for Office from a PC, or the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant/uninstall troubleshooter if needed.
4. Uninstalling Office removes only the applications, not personal files, documents, or workbooks.

Recommended approach:

• Uninstall Office 2024 first.
• Then install Microsoft 365 on the same device using the standard installation guidance for Microsoft 365.

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References:

• Upgrade your Microsoft 365 for business users to the latest apps
• Uninstall Microsoft 365 or Office from a PC
• Can’t switch from Microsoft 365 to Office
• Microsoft 365 subscription features aren't available in Office apps