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Setting up Microsoft 365 at microsoft365.com/setup takes about 10 minutes. This walkthrough covers what to prepare, how to redeem your product key, and how to install and activate the apps on your first device.

Before you go to microsoft365.com/setup

  • Your product key: 25 characters, found on the retail card or in your purchase confirmation email.
  • A Microsoft account: an Outlook.com, Hotmail, or other email signed up as a Microsoft account. You can create one during setup.
  • A stable internet connection and an up-to-date browser.
A product key can be redeemed only once. After you redeem it, the subscription is tied to the Microsoft account you signed in with, so pick that account carefully.

Activate your subscription at microsoft365.com/setup

1

Open the official setup page

Type https://www.microsoft365.com/setup into the address bar yourself. See using the official URL safely.
2

Sign in with your Microsoft account

Sign in, or select the option to create a new account. Read how to link your Microsoft account if you are unsure which one to use.
3

Enter your product key

Type the 25-character key exactly as printed. Choose your country or region and language, then continue.
4

Confirm your subscription

Review the details and confirm. Your subscription now appears in your Microsoft account.

Install and activate the apps

1

Select Install apps

Go to your Microsoft 365 account page or microsoft365.com and select Install apps.
2

Run the installer

Open the downloaded file and follow the prompts. Installation time depends on your connection speed.
3

Open an app and sign in

Open Word or Excel, sign in with the same Microsoft account, and accept the license agreement. The apps are now activated.
For platform-specific steps, see installing Microsoft 365 apps. Using a business plan? Follow the business setup guide instead.
This is an independent guide and is not affiliated with Microsoft. Always enter your product key only on the official microsoft365.com/setup page.