M365: Access Office Applications Without Installing Office

Article Type: How-To

Question: Can I access Office applications without installing Microsoft Office on my computer?

• I want to access Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, or another Microsoft Office 365 application in a browser without downloading the Microsoft Office application suite.
• I am using a Chromebook, tablet, phone, or another device where Microsoft Office cannot be installed.

Answer: Yes.  Office 365 applications can be accessed via an internet browser.

• The Office 365 application suite is available on Windows/Apple laptops and desktops as well as most modern computer, phone, or tablet devices.
• If your device has an active internet connection and an internet browser like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Apple's Safari, you can access Office 365.
• Once you have logged into your Microsoft account, you may easily switch between various Office 365 applications.

1. In your browser, navigate to "Office.com".
2. Log in with your student or employee credentials.

MinnState O365 Student Login:

• Username: StarID@go.minnstate.edu
• Password: StarID password

MinnState O365 Employee Login:

• Username: StarID@minnstate.edu
• Password: StarID password

• Example: The photo below shows an employee login.  Students should make sure to use "StarID@go.minnstate.edu".
• 
• Please see MFA: Automatic Enrollment for more information regarding an additional security step that might appear at this point.

3. After logging in, hover over the icons displayed on the upper-left of your screen to show the name of the available application.
4. Choose the application that you would like to use.

• You can easily switch between Office 365 applications at any time by selecting the  icon and choosing the appropriate application.
• Your work will be automatically saved as you proceed.
• Your files will be available in OneDrive or by selecting "File->Open" and then selecting the appropriate file.