Yes, you absolutely can download Excel from Office 365 (now known as Microsoft 365).
Having access to essential productivity tools like Microsoft Excel is a key benefit of a Microsoft 365 subscription. Whether you have a business or personal plan, the ability to install the full desktop version of Excel on your computer is typically included.
According to Microsoft's guidance for setting up a business subscription, "As you're getting your Microsoft 365 business subscription set up, you'll want to download and install your Microsoft 365 apps, like Word, Excel, Microsoft Teams, and PowerPoint, on your PC or Mac." This confirms that Excel is available for download and installation as part of your subscription.
How to Download and Install Excel
Downloading and installing Excel (along with other Microsoft 365 apps) is a straightforward process:
- Go to the Microsoft 365 website: Open your web browser and navigate to microsoft365.com.
- Sign In: Log in using your Microsoft 365 account credentials associated with your subscription.
- Find the Install Option: Once signed in, look for an "Install apps" or similar button or link. This is usually prominently displayed on your dashboard.
- Select Installation: Click "Install apps" and follow the on-screen prompts to download the installer file for the full suite of Microsoft 365 applications, including Excel.
- Run the Installer: Locate the downloaded file (it's usually an executable file ending in
.exe
on Windows or a.pkg
file on Mac) and run it. - Follow Setup: The installer will guide you through the installation process. You may need to accept terms and choose installation options.
- Activate: Once installed, open any of the Microsoft 365 apps (like Excel). You may be prompted to sign in again to activate the software using your Microsoft 365 account.
Once installed and activated, you will have the full, feature-rich desktop version of Excel ready to use on your PC or Mac.
Benefits of the Desktop Version
While Microsoft 365 also offers web-based versions of its apps, downloading the desktop version of Excel provides several advantages:
- Offline Access: Use Excel even without an internet connection.
- Full Feature Set: Access all the advanced features, complex formulas, and add-ins not always available in the web version.
- Better Performance: Generally offers faster performance, especially when working with large or complex spreadsheets.
- Seamless Integration: Works more smoothly with other desktop applications on your computer.
In summary, downloading and installing the desktop version of Excel is a standard capability included with most Microsoft 365 subscriptions, allowing you to use the application offline and access its complete range of features.