United States of America
Proudly American
MicrosoftPartner

Microsoft Office Complete Guide

Acquire a thorough understanding of Microsoft’s productivity guide. Everything you need to know about Microsoft Office is right here on one page. To get the most out of your money, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the suite and learn the fundamentals before buying.

Microsoft Office

What is Microsoft Office?

Whether you’re on the go or parked in your Office, Microsoft Office is there to help you get things done. Depending on your requirements, it is available in several versions for use in client-side and server-side software. Word and Excel, two staples of the industry, are part of the traditional suite, while Skype for Business and other premium services are available in later iterations.

In order to save you time and effort, the suite was built to automate repetitive manual processes. These days, it’s about a lot more. Because of its robust features and user-friendliness, Microsoft Office has risen to the top of the software business.

Over the years, Microsoft Office has expanded beyond its original purpose as a suite of business tools. There is an Office app for just about everything these days. Whether you need to type up an essay for a school project, prepare an animated presentation, design a birthday card, or organize a massive database—there is an app for everything.

Blast from the past: Microsoft Office then and now

You might not recognize Microsoft Office from its earlier iterations. Nonetheless, the original releases laid a solid groundwork for the suite, and its fundamental concepts and capabilities are being used today.

What is now known as the “classic Office apps”—Word, Excel, and PowerPoint—were originally the only components of Office. Purchasers of Office now have the opportunity to access a plethora of additional programs designed to facilitate the ease of completion of various activities. Among these programs and services are Outlook, Sharepoint, and Microsoft Access.

Over one billion individuals around the world rely on Microsoft Office for their daily tasks and a wide range of other needs. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are still indispensable in the corporate world, but Office still has personal uses, such as helping you keep track of important documents and appointments.

What applications are included in Microsoft Office?

The several programs that make up this family’s purpose are all part of Microsoft Office. Unless otherwise specified, the following programs are compatible with Windows and macOS desktop computers.

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Office is the umbrella name for the several applications that make up this family. All of the following applications work on both Windows and macOS desktops unless stated otherwise. 

Microsoft Excel

Excel is the spreadsheet program of choice because of its ability to manage large amounts of data (up to 300,000 cells). Use data visualization tools, including charts and graphs, to execute complicated calculations. When dealing with any type of data, Excel is the way to go because of its user-friendly interface and professional features.

Microsoft PowerPoint

Platforms: You can make slideshows and presentations with PowerPoint. You can make your argument with the help of text, media, animations, and transitions. Use embedded media files, including photos, videos, icons, links, and even 3D objects, in your work. Speaking in front of an audience is a piece of cake using PowerPoint’s built-in presenter.

Buy Microsoft Outlook

One tool that can simplify your life is Outlook, a personal information manager. You get all the features of previous Microsoft apps in one robust package. An email client, calendar, contacts, addresses, and task manager are all available to users. Organize gatherings, keep in touch, and meet all of your due dates.

Microsoft OneNote

Outlook, a personal information organizer, is one tool that can make your life easier. You receive a powerful bundle that includes all the capabilities of earlier Microsoft applications. In addition to an email client, users also get Access to a calendar, addresses, projects, and contacts manager. Gather people together, stay in touch, and complete all of your tasks by the due date. 

Microsoft Access

When it comes to managing databases, nothing beats Access. A graphical user interface and tools for creating software are also provided.

Download Microsoft Publisher

First-rate publishing program for coming up with original themes. Posters, greeting cards, invitations, and more can benefit from a wide variety of typefaces, layouts, and graphic components.

Skype for Business

Set up and host online conferences and meetings without worrying about capacity or quality. You can get your message out quickly and efficiently with instant messaging. Availability Businesses should choose Skype for Business because of its compatibility with other Microsoft products.

Microsoft Office versions and editions

Microsoft made the Office suite more accessible by releasing many versions due to the extensive features it offered. Offices are used on a daily basis by many people, and the requirements of companies and individuals around the globe differ greatly.

Here, we’ve outlined the most important versions of Microsoft Office that are currently on the market, along with the features and benefits they provide to the end user. If you want to get the most out of your money and receive the features you want, you need to do your research before you buy.

Perpetual Microsoft Office

The workplace should be returned to its former glory. The core features of Office are yours to keep with a single payment. You may still get the newest versions, like Microsoft Office 2019 Home and Student license, with a perpetual license that lets you buy the software once and use it forever.

The classic Office apps are part of the perpetual suite, which is designed to be installed on a single PC. Furthermore, once you purchase Office, you’re stuck with it until you upgrade, at which point you’ll have to shell out more cash.

Microsoft 365

The classic Office apps are part of the perpetual suite, which is designed to be installed on a single PC. Furthermore, once you purchase Office, you’re stuck with it until you upgrade, at which point you’ll have to shell out more cash.

You can access the classic Office apps and a whole lot more with the different editions you buy. As an extra, you’ll get a plethora of services, like SharePoint, OneDrive, Skype for Business, and many more, like Outlook, Access, and Publisher. Any time Microsoft releases an update for any of the products in the Microsoft 365 suite, subscribers automatically gain Access to those upgrades.

Office Online

Put off installing Microsoft Office on your devices any longer? One excellent option is Office Online.

Lightweight versions of many Office products from the Microsoft Office suite are available to customers through the web-based Office Online service. The convenience and availability they offer more than compensate for their limited feature set.

Is there a catch? You get 5 GB of free storage space with OneDrive, and it’s totally free to use. Try out Office without spending a dime, or make changes to your current documents from any web browser, no matter where you are.

Microsoft Office for Mobile Devices

Recently, smartphone capabilities have skyrocketed. Microsoft is able to provide a mobile version of Office as a result of advancements and innovations in the modern day. This suite supports Windows Phone, iOS, and Android platforms.

Gain unrestricted Access to a selection of the most popular Office apps for mobile devices. Office for mobile phones has a visually similar interface and essential capabilities to edit or view documents on the move, but it isn’t as feature-packed as the desktop version.

How does Microsoft 365 vary from Microsoft Office?

The product licensing and purchase processes are the key differentiators between Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365. Now we may look at the two possibilities:

  • Microsoft 365 (previously Office 365): Microsoft 365 is a subscription service that users can enroll in. This means that you can rent Office for a certain amount of time, whether it’s a month or a year. You will be unable to access your software if a payment is not received. Unlike Microsoft Office, which will be available indefinitely, users of Microsoft 365 have Access, at no additional cost, to all future updates and improvements.
  • Microsoft Office perpetual version — Microsoft Office, in its perpetual form, requires just a single payment. Compared to Microsoft 365, this version usually comes with fewer programs. But once you buy software, you own it forever and can use it as often as you like. Users with a perpetual license are not eligible for free upgrades and updates.

Some folks will profit more from one of these choices than the other. For individuals who use Office often in a collaborative setting with coworkers and teammates, we suggest Microsoft 365. It expands the possibilities for communication, keeping oneself informed, and even working together in real-time.

Conversely, the everlasting Microsoft Office may be a preferable choice for individuals and students seeking a solution to personal or academic chores. Users can keep the program permanently because it doesn’t require constant payments.

The benefits of using Microsoft Office

Questions like “Why should I learn how to use Microsoft Office?” may cross your mind. or “Is it worthwhile to purchase Microsoft Office?” Here, we have the solutions at your fingertips. To make a well-informed choice, consider your requirements in light of the application suite’s fantastic features.

  1. Higher productivity. There is strong evidence that users’ productivity and organizational abilities are enhanced when they utilize Microsoft Office apps. With a plethora of accessibility features, in-app help, and online lessons, these apps are made to be used and enjoyed by everyone.
  2. Integration with other apps. The office’s application suite and a plethora of third-party programs work together without a hitch. It doesn’t matter how many programs you have to move between; this makes the process seamless.
  3. Industry-standard practices. Office has become a staple in several industries after many years of service. To make sure your project satisfies the needs of many industries, each app provides unparalleled compatibility.
  4. Find employers. Over eighty percent of middle-level positions reportedly call for familiarity with Microsoft Office products. Training classes and online publications might provide you with the abilities you need to get your ideal job.

Microsoft Office training resources and knowledge base

Are you just starting out? Learn the basics of installing, activating, and using Microsoft Office with the help of some of our important guides:

  • Instructions for Activating Microsoft Office Product Keys
  • Installing Updates for Microsoft Office
  • Data Security in Microsoft Office 365: What You Need to Know

Those who are more experienced with Office can benefit from our more advanced guides, which cover complex topics such as helpful hints and suggestions.

  • The Best Excel Cheat Sheets for Microsoft Office Users
  • Licensing Guides for Microsoft Office
  • The Eleven Most Important Arguments for Using Microsoft 365

About Microsoft Office certifications

Anyone wishing to demonstrate their mastery of Microsoft Office applications can choose from a number of formal certifications offered by the software giant. Although these certifications aren’t usually required for employment, having the Microsoft mark of approval can help you gain a job. Get some training and study up on Office; we’ll see what you’re capable of.

Microsoft Office Specialist (Fundamentals)

The entry-level credential is available to you. You may show off your skills with all the standard Office applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, in addition to newer ones like Access, Outlook, SharePoint, and OneNote. Microsoft claims that this certification can increase a worker’s salary by up to $16,000 compared to those without it.

Microsoft Office Specialist Expert (Associate)

An expert in Microsoft Office should be well-versed in all of the products in the Office suite. You need to show that your talents are above average in order to get this certificate. Learn all the ins and outs of the advanced features and master the art of multitasking to get things done fast.

Microsoft Office Specialist Master (Expert)

People will notice you for sure if you possess this certificate. Individuals who have achieved the esteemed status of Microsoft Office Specialist Master have demonstrated an unparalleled level of expertise in all aspects of the Office suite, surpassing that of even the most seasoned users.

How do I download Microsoft Office?

Depending on your purchase, there are multiple ways to get Microsoft Office. Even physical DVDs of earlier editions are still for sale, but newer releases can only be obtained through digital downloads.

Visit the Microsoft Store or peruse the Fastsoftwares store for a discount on any Microsoft Office software if you’re looking to buy Office.

If you have an account with the reseller, you should be able to access this download link by email. You will be able to download Office onto your computer once your purchase is completed and finished. You may have to log in to your reseller account or check your email for the download link.

What is required to run Microsoft OfficeMicrosoft Office system requirements

These requirements are unique to Windows versions of Microsoft Office 2019. These specifications apply to Windows Office 2019. Versions that are too old might not have

  • System requirements: 2-core, 1.6 GHz or higher-powered computer: 1.6 gigahertz (GHz) or faster, 2-core
  • Random Access Memory: 4 GB; 2 GB (32-bit)
  • Storage space on the hard drive: 4 gigabytes
  • Picture quality: 1280 x 768
  • When using Windows 10, you’ll need DirectX 9 or later, Windows Display Driver Model 2.0 or later, or Windows Display Driver Model 1.3 or later for Windows 10 Fall Creators Update in order to take advantage of hardware acceleration for graphics.
  • Windows 10 or Windows Server 2019 is required for functioning. Features and functionality of products may not be available on older platforms. Get the most out of it by running the most recent version of any of the supported operating systems.
  • The most recent version of a web browser such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, or Microsoft Edge
  • .NET version: You might need to install.NET 3.5 or 4.6 or later to use some functionalities.
  • Additional needs:
    • The most recent versions of Microsoft Office cannot be installed or activated without an active Internet connection. It is essential for setting up and activating any modern Office suite. Many programs, like Microsoft Office, are pre-installed on your computer and will work offline in the future.
    • Any multi-touch feature requires a device that can detect and respond to touches. But you may always access all the features and capabilities by using a normal or accessible input device, like a keyboard or mouse. With Windows 10, you will get the most out-of-the-touch features.
    • Your system setting determines the operation and graphics of the product. You might need some fancy new gear or a really fast server to use some of the capabilities.
    • Features for managing files in the cloud are only available in SharePoint, OneDrive for Business, or OneDrive.
    • To assign licenses, you need a Microsoft account or an organizational account with Microsoft.

 

A Question and Answer Format for Microsoft Office

For Office 365 Education, what is the bare minimum of a system requirement? What are the minimum system requirements for Office 365 Education?

Desktop, laptop, and CPU

  • Runs Windows: 1.6 GHz or above, dual-core. Skype for Business requires a processor speed of 2 GHz or above.
  • Operating system: Intel

Memory

  • Microsoft Windows: 4 GB of RAM; 2 GB of RAM (32-bit)
  • macOS: 128 MB of RAM

Data storage device

  • Windows OS: 4 GB of free space on the hard drive.
  • 10 GB of free space on your hard drive is required for macOS. Updates to HFS+ (sometimes called macOS Extended) or APFS may necessitate more space in the future.

Display

  • System requirements for Windows: 1280 x 768 (32-bit versions necessitate hardware acceleration for 4K and above)
  • Screen resolution required for macOS: 1280 x 800

Graphics

  • Microsoft Windows: DirectX 9 or later is needed for hardware acceleration in graphics, and Windows Display Drivers Manager 2.0 or later is required for Windows 10 (or Windows 10 Fall Creators Update) users. A 32-bit per-pixel format, 128 MB of graphics memory, and DirectX 9 or later are requirements for Skype for Business. Format.
  • There is no need for graphics in macOS.

Operating system

  • Operating Systems Windows: Windows 10 SAC, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2019, or Windows Server 2016. It should be noted that Windows Server 2019 and Windows Server 2016 will continue to get support for Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise until October 2025.
  • macOS: One of the three newest iterations of Apple’s operating system. The macOS requirement is updated to reflect the three most recent versions of macOS: the most recent version, the two versions before it, and the new version that has been released.

How does the transition to Home and Business affect current Office 365 subscriptions?

When you upgrade or downgrade your Office 365 plan, your existing subscription will be handled differently. You must upgrade to a plan that includes the necessary licenses in order to use your service for business purposes.

Which Microsoft Office version is better for Windows 10?

Buying Microsoft Office 2019 or signing up for Microsoft 365 (formerly called Office 365) are both highly recommended.

May I inquire about the remaining Office 365 plans?

Microsoft 365 now offers all of the flexible Office 365 options.

  • Plans for home use of Office 365:
    • Office 365 for Individuals
    • Windows 365 Enterprise
  • Office 365 subscriptions for companies:
    • Basic for Microsoft 365 Enterprise
    • Enterprise Edition of Microsoft 365
    • Premium for Microsoft 365 Enterprise
    • Azure Web Apps
  • Plans for businesses using Office 365:
    • Excel in Microsoft 365
    • E5 for Microsoft 365
    • Windows 365 Pro Plus
  • Plans for Office 365 in the classroom:
    • Word 365 Standard
    • Word 365 A3
    • A5 in Office 365

Check out the Microsoft 365 and Office 365 plan options website to view all the plans that are offered, including government and regional plans.

With Microsoft 365, which Office applications are included?

Microsoft Office 365 members can access up to ten individual applications. All of the Microsoft Office suites include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. Verify that the package you’re considering covers all the apps you’ll need before making a purchase.

In a plan, who is responsible for overseeing the OneDrive account?

The owner of the subscription has full control over the OneDrive account linked to it.

Will Microsoft Office be free for me to download?

To see all of the available plans, including regional and government ones, visit the website for Microsoft 365 and Office 365 on your device. 

For how much is Office 2019?

You can buy Microsoft Office Home & Student 2019 for $114.99 on the official Microsoft website. Can you discover a more favorable amount? Stop by the SoftwareKeep store to take advantage of additional savings on perpetual Office 2019 and discounts of up to 30% off the product price.

What does Microsoft Office consist of?

Additional services and apps are only available with Microsoft 365. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are the three most common perpetual office apps. Only with Microsoft 365 can you access any more services and apps.

Where can I find Microsoft Office, and how much does it cost?

Office supplies are often given out at a discount or even for free to students and teachers. For everyone else, buying Microsoft Office Home & Student or going with an older version, like Office 2016, is the most budget-friendly choice.

How much does it cost to install Microsoft Office and Office 365?

Install Microsoft Office for free for a month with the start of your free trial. Anyone with a Microsoft account can access this trial by visiting the Microsoft website.

Is purchasing Microsoft Office 2019 a worthwhile investment?

Business owners also have Access to corporate apps, training videos, and instructions, in addition to advanced cloud services. Yes. You only have to pay for it once to reap the rewards forever. Microsoft Office 2019 is a must-have for students and anybody working remotely. It not only helps make consumers happy, but it also unlocks professional features and Office add-ins. In addition to corporate apps, training videos, and instructions, business owners also have Access to smart cloud services.

Is Microsoft Office a product that you sell frequently?

Yes. There is a permanent version of every edition of Microsoft Office, so you may buy it once and use it forever.

Is Microsoft’s Office 2020 already out?

Microsoft has been mum on the subject of Office 2020 and any other future suites up to this point. In 2022, according to experts, a new permanent suite is expected to be delivered. Subscribers to Microsoft 365 will be the only ones to have Access to app upgrades and improvements at the moment.

Written by:

Similar Articles

Sign up for our Newsletter


Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Need Help?