Microsoft Word not working on a new Windows computer: how to fix it
On a new Windows computer, Word usually needs to be activated before it works. The copy may be a trial, or it may be waiting for a product key or a Microsoft account sign in. Your computer is fine.
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Steps
Look at your order receipt or the box for the words Microsoft 365, Office Home, or a product key card. That tells you what you actually bought and whether Office was included or only a trial.
If you got a product key, open a web browser and go to setup.office.com. Sign in with your Microsoft account, or create one, and type the 25 character key. Then download and install Office from that page.
If there is no key, open Word anyway. When it asks you to sign in or activate, sign in with the Microsoft account you set the computer up with. Some new computers have Office tied to that account already.
If Word says Unlicensed Product or Product Activation Failed, open Word, click File, then Account. Sign out, close Word, open it again, and sign back in with the account that owns Office.
Check that only one copy of Office is installed. Open Settings, then Apps, then Installed apps, and search for Office or Microsoft 365. If you see two, such as a trial and the one you bought, uninstall the trial and restart the computer.
If Word opens but crashes or freezes, open Settings, Apps, Installed apps, click the three dots next to Microsoft 365 or Office, choose Modify, then Quick Repair. If that does not help, run Online Repair.
If the listing promised Office and you received only a trial with no key, contact the seller with your order number. They should send a key or tell you how the included copy activates.
Common questions
Do I need to reset or reinstall Windows to fix Word?
No. Word problems on a new computer are almost always about activation or sign in. Resetting Windows erases your setup and does not add a Word license.
Is there a free way to use Word?
Yes. Word in a web browser at office.com is free with a Microsoft account. It is a good stopgap while you sort out the desktop version.
Free human help is at capacity right now. If you want help while you fix this, Ellis, our AI assistant, can help you by phone now. The first 5 minutes are free when you call (928) 272-0355. If you want more time, phone help is $19 one time for up to 30 minutes, used over 14 days. No subscription. Ellis is an AI and can make mistakes.