How to Activate Microsoft Word 2007

Activate Microsoft 2007 via the telephone or over the Internet.

Microsoft requires Word 2007 users to activate and register their software in order to verify license information and protect against software piracy. During the activation process, Microsoft verifies that the product key you entered when installing Word 2007 is not in violation of licensing terms. While specific license terms depend on whether the software came with the purchase of a new computer or you purchased Word 2007 at a retail site or downloaded the software, in general, license terms allow you to install and use Word 2007 on only one computer.

Things You'll Need

• Word 2007 product key
• Internet connection (optional)

Instructions

1. Open Word 2007. If this is the first time you are using the software, a prompt will appear requesting that you enter your 25-character product key. Entering the product key causes the activation and registration process to start automatically and provides two options.

   Locate your product key. Look for a sticker on the CD case if you purchased the software at a retail store, check the email confirmation message you received if you downloaded the software, and if Word 2007 came with the purchase of a new computer, look for a sticker on the computer or check the product documentation.

2. Select the option for activating via the Internet to allow the Activation wizard to connect to Microsoft and activate Word 2007 with no action required on your part. A confirmation message will alert you when the activation process is complete.

3. Select the option for activating via the telephone to view a contact number specific to your license type and an installation identification number you will provide the Microsoft Customer Service representative assisting you. During the activation process, you will receive and enter a confirmation ID in the Activation wizard text box to complete the process.

Tips & Warnings

• If you choose not to activate Word 2007 the first time you open and use it, Microsoft provides a grace period that allows you to open and use Word 2007 a total of 25 times before it reverts to a "Reduced Functionality" mode. Reduced functionality causes Word 2007 to act as a software viewer that does not allow you to create or save documents.

References

• Activate Microsoft Office Programs
• 2007 Microsoft Office Suites License designations

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Resources to Help You Activate a License in Microsoft Office Programs
• Protect Yourself from Piracy
• Enter or Find Your Product Key