Microsoft Word 2021
Previous generation
Windows 11
macOS 14, 15, 26
English
PerpetualSupport ended on 13 October 2026
ENDSDownload
Microsoft Word 2021
Direct English installers where available
Compare requirements, support status and direct installer availability for documents, templates and text.
Official publisher linksOfficial installation sources Microsoft
Official sourcesSource and installation details
Official installation optionsProvider requirements apply at the source
English installation optionsFor work in your preferred language
Program information
- Developer
- Microsoft Corporation
- Version
- Microsoft Word 2021
- Interface language
- English and other languages
- License
- Perpetual
- Platforms
- Windows · macOS
- Developer's website
- Microsoft.com
VERSIONS AND ACCESS
Word 2021 options
VersionPlatformsInterface languageAccess typeStatusAction
COMPATIBILITY
System Requirements
Options
Minimum
Featured
System
Windows 10 or Windows 11; supported server releases depend on the edition
A current supported Windows version with updates installed
CPU
1,1 GHz processor, 2 cores
A modern 4-core x64 processor
RAM
4 GB RAM
8–16 GB RAM for large documents and workbooks
Storage
4 GB of free space
SSD and a separate backup of installation and working files
Display and graphics
1280 × 768
Full HD; check interface scaling for older releases
Internet and activation
Connection for activation, updates, and online services
Stable internet and an active account or volume license
Options
Minimum
Featured
System
One of the three latest macOS versions during the release's support period
A current macOS version within Microsoft's supported range
CPU
Intel or Apple Silicon
Apple Silicon for better energy efficiency
RAM
4 GB RAM
8–16 GB RAM for large documents
Storage
10 GB of free space
SSD and spare space for documents, fonts and cache
Display
1280 × 800
Retina or external Full HD display
Internet and activation
Internet access for activation and updates
Stable connection and valid license
Exact requirements depend on the Office 2021 edition, architecture and licensing channel.
FEATURES
Microsoft Word 2021 features
Dark page
Switch both the interface elements and the document page to dark mode. Choose a more comfortable text display while working.
Line Focus
Keep one, three or five lines in focus in the reading tool. This helps you move through long text in small sections without losing your place.
Search commands
Use the Microsoft Search box above the ribbon to find text, commands, and help. It is easier to find the action you need without browsing every editor tab.
ODF 1.3 format
Open and save documents in OpenDocument 1.3 format. This support is useful when exchanging files with applications that use the open text-document format.
Automatic table of contents
Build a table of contents from the document's headings and update it after rearranging sections. This makes long reports, instructions, and academic papers easier to navigate.
Tables in a document
Place lists, calculations and comparisons in tables. Add rows and columns as you work to maintain a clear structure within the text.
Find and replace
Find words and phrases, then replace individual matches or all of them at once. This simplifies updating names and terms in a multipage document.
Track changes and review
Track text additions and deletions, review other authors' changes and accept or reject revisions. This mode is useful when reviewing a contract or report.
HELP CENTER
Questions and answers
Is a direct installer available for Microsoft Word 2021?
Enabled downloads lead directly to verified installer files. — Use an enabled Download button for Mac, Windows to retrieve the matching English installer directly from the official publisher. Check the selected product and license before installation. Account, store and guide pages are not offered as downloads.
Which license or account do I need for Microsoft Word 2021?
Access and activation are determined by Microsoft and your existing entitlement. — Use the Microsoft account, work or school account, subscription or perpetual license that covers the selected product and edition. Downloading an installer or opening a guide does not grant a license.
How do I install Microsoft Word 2021 in English?
Choose the language through the official installation or app settings. — Choose English in the available installer or application settings. Display and proofing languages can be configured separately. Language settings for an existing licensed installation do not establish that a new installer download is available.
Can I download Word 2021 for free if I have a 2024 license?
The file itself is not proof of usage rights. — Licenses from different release years are not automatically interchangeable: install the release that matches your purchase.
Which release should I download for working on a document with colleagues: Word 2021 or LTSC 2021?
Collaboration depends on the specific edition and cloud storage being used. — Do not choose LTSC just because the year matches: its cloud feature set differs.