Easy Tech TutsHow to Download Microsoft Excel for Free Easily 2026
By Impran M N
If you need spreadsheet power without paying for a license, Microsoft actually offers several legal, no-cost routes into Excel. This guide walks through the browser-based version, the mobile app, and institutional access paths so you can pick the one that fits your situation and start working right away.
01Sign up for a free Microsoft account
Head to the official Microsoft 365 site and create a free account using any personal email address. This unlocks the web-based version of Excel at no cost.
02Open Excel from the web dashboard
Once signed in, find Excel in your browser dashboard and open a blank workbook to start editing immediately, with no download required.
03Try the mobile app route
On a phone or tablet, install the free Excel or Microsoft 365 app from your app store, log in with the same free account, and edit spreadsheets on the go.
04Check for student or corporate access
If you have a school or work email address, you may qualify for a free full desktop license through your institution's Microsoft 365 program.
05Sync and open local files
Use OneDrive to store your spreadsheets in the cloud, and the upload option in the web app to open existing local .xlsx files.
Frequently asked questions
Is the free version of Excel really free forever?
Yes, the web-based version tied to a free Microsoft account has no time limit, though it has fewer advanced features than the paid desktop app.
Do I need to enter payment details to sign up?
No, creating a basic free Microsoft account only requires an email address and does not require a credit card.
Can I open files created in the desktop version?
Yes, you can upload and edit standard .xlsx files inside the free web version, though some advanced formatting may differ slightly.
Is there a safe way to get the full desktop app for free?
The safest free path to the full desktop app is through a valid student or employer Microsoft 365 subscription, if your school or company provides one.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
