The key consists of 25 alphanumeric characters, usually split into groups of five.

Retail Microsoft product keys are usually on a bright sticker located inside the case with the CD/DVD, or on the back. Follow the prompts to finish the download process.If you bought a retail copy of Microsoft Windows or Office, the first place to look is in the disc jewel case.

Enter your Office product key without hyphens, and then select Verify.Follow the prompts to finish the redemption and setup process.Enter your Office product key without hyphens, and then select Next.Let's get your Office’ page, follow the prompts to sign in again and associate your product key with your Microsoft account. Select Install Office again in the window where the product key appears.Locate the Office one-time purchase or individual Office app, and then select Install Office to view your product key (this doesn't actually install Office).After you sign in, select your name in the upper right-hand corner, and then select Order History.Go to and sign in with the Microsoft account that you used to buy Office.These steps apply if you’ve purchased your product through the Microsoft Store. Enter your Office product key, without hyphens.In the ‘Sign in to set up Office’ window, select I don't want to sign in or create an account.Start an Office app, like Word, Project, or Visio, depending on your purchase.These steps apply only to Office Professional Plus, Visio Professional, or Project Professional. Follow the prompts to finish the redemption process.If you don't see the option to enter your product key, it was entered for you automatically. Enter your Office product key, without hyphens, if prompted.

Be sure to remember this account so that you can install or reinstall Office later, without a product key.

Office 365, Office 2019, Office 2016, and Office 2013 (PC and Mac) If your purchase of an Office product came with a 25 character product key, you can use the steps below based on which product you have to find out where you should enter that key to download and install your Office product.

Install office 2016 with product key