Upgrading to a new computer is always exciting—until you realize all the software you rely on needs to come with you. If you’re like many users, Microsoft Office is one of the first programs you want to reinstall. But that leads to a common question: Can you move Microsoft Office from one computer to another?
The short answer is: Yes, you can—but it depends on the type of Office license you have. In this article, we’ll walk you through what’s possible, what’s not, and how to make the switch smoothly.
Understanding Your Microsoft Office License Type
Before you attempt to move Office to a new computer, you need to know what kind of license you own. This determines whether transferring Office is allowed.
Common Types of Microsoft Office Licenses
- Microsoft 365 (Subscription-based)
Tied to your Microsoft account, this version can be installed on multiple devices. Easily transferable. - Retail License (One-time purchase)
Purchased from the Microsoft Store or third-party retailers. Usually transferable, but limited to one active installation at a time. - OEM License (Pre-installed on a device)
Comes with your PC and is non-transferable. Tied to the original hardware. - Volume License (Enterprise use)
Designed for businesses; governed by specific licensing agreements. May be transferable within an organization.
💡 Pro Tip: To check your license type, open a Microsoft Office app, click File > Account, and look for details under Product Information.
Can You Transfer Your Office License?
Microsoft 365: The Easiest to Move
If you’re using Microsoft 365, you’re in luck. Since it’s tied to your Microsoft account rather than your device:
- You can sign in to your new computer and install Office directly.
- There’s no need to deactivate the old device first.
- You can manage devices via your Microsoft account dashboard.
Retail Licenses: Yes, But with Conditions
Retail licenses allow a one-time purchase installation on a single PC or Mac. You can transfer the license to another computer, but:
- You must uninstall Office from the old device first.
- You may need to reactivate the software on the new computer, sometimes by phone or online.
OEM Licenses: Not Transferable
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) licenses are permanently tied to the original device.
- Once your old computer is retired, the Office license dies with it.
- You’ll need to purchase a new license for your new computer.
How to Transfer Microsoft Office: Step-by-Step
Here’s a general guide to moving Microsoft Office from one device to another.
1. Deactivate Office on the Old Computer
For Retail and Microsoft 365:
- Microsoft 365: Log into your account at account.microsoft.com, go to Devices, and remove the old device.
- Retail License: Simply uninstall Office from the old device.
2. Install Office on the New Computer
- Visit office.com/setup or office.com.
- Sign in with the same Microsoft account you used before.
- Download and install the correct version of Office.
- Follow the on-screen steps to activate your license.
3. Activate and Start Using Office
- Once installed, open any Office app.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account.
- If prompted, enter your product key or select an activation option.
🛠️ Note: If you run into activation issues, Microsoft provides a Phone Activation option or support through live chat.
Common Issues During Transfer
Even with a valid license, a few bumps can occur during the transfer:
Activation Fails
- Double-check that the previous installation has been deactivated or uninstalled.
- Ensure you’re using the correct Microsoft account or product key.
Product Key Doesn’t Work
- This can happen if the key is tied to an OEM license.
- If your key was shared, it might have exceeded the number of allowed installations.
You Lost the Product Key
- If you purchased Office online, the key may be stored in your Microsoft account.
- If lost and unrecoverable, you may need to purchase a new license.
Should You Consider Microsoft 365?
If you’re currently using a retail or OEM version, moving to Microsoft 365 might be a better long-term solution:
- Install on up to 5 devices per user.
- Access to cloud storage (1TB OneDrive).
- Free upgrades and added apps like Teams and Outlook Premium.
- Much easier to manage across multiple devices.
Conclusion: Know Your License, Then Move with Confidence
So, can you move Microsoft Office from one computer to another? The answer is yes—as long as your license type permits it. Microsoft 365 and Retail licenses are transferable, but OEM licenses are not.
To ensure a smooth transition:
- Check your license type first.
- Uninstall or deactivate on the old device.
- Install and activate on the new one using your Microsoft account or product key.
Caleb Carlson is a contributing writer at Computer Site Engineering, specializing in computer technology, software trends, and hardware innovations. His articles simplify complex tech topics, making them accessible to readers of all levels.
