Run the downloaded .exe file to extract its contents (it will extract a setup.exe file and several sample .xml configuration files) into a dedicated folder on your PC (e.g., C:\OfficeSetup ). Step 2: Create a Configuration XML File
A: No. Your documents are saved separately on your hard drive or OneDrive. Uninstalling Office does not delete your .docx or .xlsx files.
If the error persists after reinstallation, download the official Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant (SaRA) tool to completely purge hidden registry keys left behind by the expired preview version before attempting another reinstall. To help narrow down the issue, let me know:
Preview builds automatically expire several months after release. Run the downloaded
Before fixing the problem, it helps to understand it. Microsoft distributes "Preview" versions of Office to businesses and testers before the final release. These previews include:
The first step in the remediation process is the complete removal of the existing Preview installation. Simply uninstalling via the Control Panel often leaves behind registry entries and configuration files that can interfere with the new installation.
Now, let’s fix it.
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If the preview version remains stuck, a clean install of the retail or volume license version is recommended.
Periodically check File > Account to ensure the product is listed as "Product Activated" rather than "Trial Expires On..." Summary Table of Solutions Recommended Fix I bought a license key Change Product Key in File > Account. I need an urgent fix Run cscript ospp.vbs /rearm in Admin Command Prompt. Preview keeps coming back Uninstall fully, restart, and install final build. Uninstalling Office does not delete your
Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features , find "Microsoft Office LTSC Professional Plus 2021 - en-us" (or your language), and uninstall it.
Have a question? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll help you troubleshoot.
If you're still having trouble, consider checking for via File > Account > Update Options > Update Now , as sometimes the expired state can be resolved through a patch. Before fixing the problem, it helps to understand it
A retail license key was used on an installer tailored for enterprise volume licensing. Method 1: Update and Activate via Command Prompt (KMS/MAK)