How to Fix MS Word Not Activated Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Microsoft Word is an essential tool for many users on Windows 11. Sometimes, you might see an error saying Word is not activated. This can stop you from using all the features of the software.

Fixing this issue is usually straightforward, but it requires a few simple checks and steps. This guide will help you solve the MS Word not activated error step-by-step.

Even if you are not tech-savvy, these instructions are designed to be easy to follow. By the end, you should be able to activate Word and get back to work.

Let’s dive into the solutions to get your Microsoft Word activated correctly on Windows 11.

Quick Note Before You Start

Make sure your computer is connected to the internet. Activation requires an active connection.
Check if your Microsoft Office subscription or license is still valid and not expired.
Confirm that you are signed in with the correct Microsoft account linked to your Office purchase.
Keep your Windows 11 updated to avoid compatibility problems.

Step 1: Restart Microsoft Word and Your Computer

Sometimes, the error can be temporary. Closing and reopening Word can refresh the activation status.

Close Microsoft Word completely.
Restart your Windows 11 PC by clicking the Start menu, then selecting Power > Restart.
After your PC restarts, open Word again and check if the activation error still appears.

Restarting clears temporary glitches and reloads system files, which often fixes minor activation issues.

Step 2: Check Your Microsoft Account Sign-In

Activation is linked to your Microsoft account. If you are not signed in or signed in with the wrong account, Word may show the error.

Open Microsoft Word.
Click on File in the top-left corner.
Select Account from the side menu.
Under User Information, check if you are signed in.
If not signed in, click Sign In and enter your Microsoft account details.
If signed in with a different account, click Sign out and then sign in with the correct account linked to your Office license.

Using the right account ensures Word can verify your license and activate properly.

Step 3: Run Microsoft Office Activation Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a troubleshooter that can detect and fix activation problems automatically.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Find Microsoft Office Activation or similar and click Run.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool checks for common errors and attempts repairs, saving you manual effort.

Step 4: Update Microsoft Office

Outdated Office versions can cause activation issues. Updating ensures you have the latest fixes and improvements.

Open Microsoft Word.
Click File > Account.
Under Product Information, click Update Options > Update Now.
Wait while Office checks for and installs updates.
Restart Word and check if activation works.

Keeping Office updated helps prevent bugs and improves stability.

Step 5: Reactivate Office Using Command Prompt

If the above steps fail, you can try reactivating Office manually through the Command Prompt. This method resets the activation status.

Press Windows + S and type cmd.
Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
Copy and paste the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

cd %ProgramFiles%Microsoft OfficeOffice16
cscript ospp.vbs /rearm

Note: If Office is installed in Program Files (x86), use this path instead:

cd %ProgramFiles(x86)%Microsoft OfficeOffice16

After the command runs successfully, restart your computer.
Open Word again and check the activation status.

This process resets activation and can fix corrupted license files.

Step 6: Repair Microsoft Office Installation

A corrupted Office installation can cause activation errors. Repairing Office might resolve this.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to Apps > Installed apps.
Find Microsoft Office or Office 365 in the list.
Click the three dots next to it and choose Modify.
Select Quick Repair first and click Repair.
If the issue persists, repeat and choose Online Repair for a deeper fix.
Restart your PC after the repair completes.

Repairing replaces damaged files without deleting your documents or settings.

Step 7: Check Your Windows Activation Status

Sometimes, Windows itself needs to be activated to allow Office activation. Make sure your Windows 11 is activated.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Activation.
Check the activation status. If Windows is not activated, follow the instructions to activate it.

Office activation can depend on a properly activated Windows system.

FAQs About MS Word Not Activated Error

Why does Word say it is not activated?

Word requires a valid license linked to your Microsoft account. If the license is expired, missing, or you are not signed in correctly, Word will show the activation error.

Can I use Word without activation?

Yes, but only with limited features. You will see reminders to activate, and some advanced functions will be disabled.

How do I check if my Office license is valid?

Will reinstalling Office fix activation errors?

Reinstalling can help if files are corrupted, but it is recommended to try repair and troubleshooting steps first.

What if I bought Office from a third party and activation fails?

Ensure the seller is legitimate and the key has not been used or blocked. Contact Microsoft support if you suspect a problem with the license.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above methods fix the activation error, here are your final options:

Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for personalized help.
Check for Malware: Sometimes malware can interfere with activation. Run a full antivirus scan.
Consider Reinstalling Windows: This is a last resort if system files are heavily corrupted.
Purchase a New License: If your license is expired or invalid, buying a new one might be necessary.

Conclusion

Fixing the MS Word not activated error on Windows 11 is usually a matter of following a few simple steps. Starting with basic restarts and sign-in checks can save time and effort.

Using built-in troubleshooters, updating Office, and repairing the installation can resolve most issues without technical expertise.

Always ensure your Microsoft account and license are valid, and keep your system updated.

If problems persist, Microsoft Support is your best resource. With patience and these steps, you can get Word activated and back to full functionality quickly.