Microsoft Office

How To Fix Microsoft Word Unlicensed Product

If you've encountered the frustrating issue of Microsoft Word displaying an "Unlicensed Product" message, you're not alone. This common problem can stop you in your tracks, making it impossible to access or edit your documents. But fear not, because there are solutions available that can help you fix this issue and get back to work.

To begin addressing the problem of an unlicensed Microsoft Word product, it's important to understand the background. Microsoft Word is a widely-used word processing program that has been a staple in offices and homes for decades. However, due to software updates and licensing issues, some users may find themselves facing the unlicensed product error. This can occur for a variety of reasons, such as an expired subscription, outdated software, or a problem with the activation process.



How To Fix Microsoft Word Unlicensed Product

Understanding the Issue of Microsoft Word Unlicensed Product

Microsoft Word is a widely used word processing software that offers a range of features and functionalities. However, sometimes users may encounter the issue of an unlicensed product. This problem occurs when there is an issue with the software activation or when the product key is not entered correctly during installation. When Microsoft Word is unlicensed, users may face limitations in accessing certain features and services. It is crucial to address this issue to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted experience with Microsoft Word.

Verifying Activation Status

The first step in resolving the issue of an unlicensed Microsoft Word product is to verify the activation status. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Open Microsoft Word on your computer.
  • Click on the "File" tab located in the top-left corner.
  • Navigate to "Account" or "Help" (depending on the version of Microsoft Word you are using).
  • Look for the activation status displayed on the screen. If it shows "Product Activated" or "Subscription Active," it means your product is licensed and activated.

If the activation status indicates that the product is unlicensed, continue with the following steps to fix the issue.

Updating Microsoft Word

In some cases, an outdated version of Microsoft Word can lead to the unlicensed product issue. Keeping the software up to date can help fix this problem. Here's how you can update Microsoft Word:

  • Open Microsoft Word on your device.
  • Click on the "File" tab located in the top-left corner.
  • Select "Account" or "Help" from the options.
  • Choose "Update Options" or "Check for Updates."
  • If there are any updates available, follow the on-screen prompts to download and install them.
  • Once the updates are installed, restart Microsoft Word and check if the product is now licensed.

If updating Microsoft Word does not resolve the issue, proceed to the next step.

Re-entering the Product Key

Occasionally, the unlicensed product problem can be due to an incorrect or expired product key. Follow these instructions to re-enter the product key:

  • Open Microsoft Word on your computer.
  • Click on the "File" tab located in the top-left corner.
  • Navigate to "Account" or "Help."
  • Click on "Change Product Key" or a similar option.
  • Enter the correct product key in the designated field. Ensure that you have a valid product key.
  • Click on "Activate" or "Continue" to proceed.

If the product key is valid and entered correctly, Microsoft Word should activate, resolving the unlicensed product issue.

Repairing Microsoft Office Installation

If none of the previous methods have resolved the unlicensed product issue, repairing the Microsoft Office installation might help. Follow these steps:

  • Close all Microsoft Office applications.
  • Open Control Panel on your computer.
  • Go to "Programs" or "Programs and Features."
  • Locate Microsoft Office from the list of installed programs.
  • Right-click on Microsoft Office and select "Change" or "Repair."
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the repair process.
  • Once the repair is complete, restart your computer and check if Microsoft Word is now activated.

Exploring Additional Solutions for Microsoft Word Unlicensed Product

If the previous methods did not resolve the unlicensed product issue in Microsoft Word, there are a few additional solutions to consider:

Clearing Cached Data

Clearing the cached data related to Microsoft Word can sometimes fix activation issues. Follow these steps:

  • Close all Microsoft Office applications.
  • Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
  • Type "%appdata%" (without quotes) and press Enter.
  • Locate the "Microsoft" folder and open it.
  • Find the "Office" folder and open it.
  • Delete all the files and folders inside the "Office" folder.
  • Restart your computer and check if Microsoft Word is now licensed and activated.

Contacting Microsoft Support

If none of the previous methods have resolved the issue, contacting Microsoft Support is recommended. They have specialized tools and resources to help troubleshoot and resolve activation problems. You can reach out to Microsoft Support through their official website or by calling their dedicated helpline.

Checking Subscription Status

If you are using Microsoft Word as part of a subscription plan, such as Microsoft 365, ensuring that your subscription is active is crucial. Check your subscription status by following these steps:

  • Sign in to your Microsoft account associated with the subscription.
  • Navigate to the Microsoft account dashboard.
  • Look for the section related to your subscription and verify if it is active.
  • If the subscription is inactive or expired, renew it or contact Microsoft Support for assistance.

By following these steps, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue of an unlicensed Microsoft Word product.


How To Fix Microsoft Word Unlicensed Product

How to Resolve Microsoft Word Unlicensed Product Issue

If you are encountering the "Microsoft Word Unlicensed Product" issue, there are several steps you can take to resolve it. Here are two possible solutions:

Solution 1: Reactivate Microsoft Office Subscription

If your Microsoft Word license has expired or is not activated, you need to reactivate your Microsoft Office subscription. Follow these steps:

  • Open any Office application (e.g., Word, Excel).
  • Go to "File" and select "Account".
  • Under "Product Information", choose "Update Options" and then "Update Now".
  • Once the update is complete, select "Reactivate" and follow the prompts to enter your license key or sign in to your Microsoft account.

Solution 2: Repair Office Installation

If the issue persists, you can try repairing your Office installation. Here's what you need to do:

  • Open "Control Panel" and go to "Programs" or "Programs and Features".
  • Locate and select Microsoft Office in the list of installed programs.
  • Click on the "Change" or "Repair" button.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.

Key Takeaways: How to Fix Microsoft Word Unlicensed Product

  • Ensure you have a valid and licensed Microsoft Office subscription.
  • Check your internet connection and verify that it is stable and active.
  • Sign in to your Microsoft account and ensure that it is associated with your Office subscription.
  • Try repairing your Office installation to fix any potential issues.
  • If all else fails, contact Microsoft support for further assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to fixing the issue of an unlicensed Microsoft Word product:

1. Why does Microsoft Word show as unlicensed?

When Microsoft Word shows as unlicensed, it means that your copy of Word has not been properly activated with a valid license key. This can happen if the license key has expired, the activation process was not completed correctly, or if you are using a pirated or unauthorized version of Word.

To fix this issue, you need to ensure that your license key is valid and activate it properly. If you are using a pirated or unauthorized version, you will need to purchase a legitimate copy of Microsoft Word.

2. How can I activate my Microsoft Word license?

To activate your Microsoft Word license, follow these steps:

1. Open Microsoft Word and click on "File" in the top left corner.

2. Select "Account" from the left-hand menu.

3. Under the "Product Information" section, click on "Change Product Key".

4. Enter your valid license key and click on "Next" to activate your license.

3. What should I do if my license key has expired?

If your license key has expired, you will need to renew it in order to continue using Microsoft Word. Here's what you can do:

1. Contact Microsoft support or your software provider to inquire about license renewal options.

2. Purchase a new license key for Microsoft Word and activate it following the steps mentioned earlier.

4. What if I accidentally used a pirated version of Microsoft Word?

If you have accidentally used a pirated version of Microsoft Word, it is important to rectify the situation and switch to a legitimate version to avoid legal and security risks. Here's what you should do:

1. Uninstall the unauthorized version of Microsoft Word from your computer.

2. Purchase a legal copy of Microsoft Word from an authorized retailer or Microsoft's official website.

3. Install the legitimate version of Microsoft Word and activate it using a valid license key.

5. Can I use Microsoft Word without a license?

No, you cannot legally use Microsoft Word without a valid license. Microsoft Word is a commercial software that requires a license to be used legally. Using Microsoft Word without a license is considered piracy and can lead to legal consequences.

It is important to purchase a legitimate license and activate Microsoft Word to ensure compliance with copyright laws and to receive regular updates and support from Microsoft.



In conclusion, fixing a Microsoft Word unlicensed product is essential for users who want to access the full range of features and benefits offered by this software. By following the steps outlined in this article, users can resolve the issue and continue using Word without interruptions.

Remember to check if you have a valid license key and activate it to ensure your copy of Microsoft Word is legal and genuine. Additionally, regularly updating the software and keeping it up-to-date can prevent unlicensed product errors from occurring in the future. If all else fails, contacting Microsoft support can provide assistance and guidance in resolving any licensing issues with Microsoft Word. With these solutions, users can enjoy a hassle-free experience with their Word documents and maximize their productivity.


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