Microsoft is phasing out the Microsoft Store version of Office applications, shifting entirely to the Click-to-Run installation method. Starting October 2025, no new feature updates will be provided for Microsoft 365 apps installed via the Microsoft Store. Security updates will continue until December 2026, after which they will also cease.

In an official support article, Microsoft confirmed the upcoming discontinuation of support for the Microsoft Store installation of Microsoft 365 Apps. “Feature updates will end in October 2025, and security updates will conclude in December 2026,” the company stated.

Users currently running the Microsoft Store version are advised to transition to the Click-to-Run version to keep receiving feature enhancements and critical security patches.

“If your device uses the Microsoft Store installation type of Microsoft 365 Apps, you must upgrade to Click-to-Run to continue accessing new features and security updates,” Microsoft emphasized.

What Are the Two Microsoft 365 Installation Types?

Microsoft 365 applications can be installed on Windows using two different methods: through the Microsoft Store or via the Click-to-Run installer.

While both versions appear identical in user experience, their underlying architecture and deployment mechanisms are fundamentally different.

The Microsoft Store version uses the Appx packaging format, originally built for Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps. This method installs Office apps in a sandboxed environment, similar to other apps from the Microsoft Store, with limited system-level access.

Click-to-Run, on the other hand, uses a specialized .exe-based streaming installer developed specifically for Office. It operates within a virtualized environment that still allows deep integration with Windows and Microsoft 365 services. Built on principles from Microsoft App-V (Application Virtualization), it’s not a full App-V solution but is optimized for cloud delivery and enterprise management.

Why Is Microsoft Moving to Click-to-Run?

Microsoft has long prioritized enterprise needs. While the company has made strides in consumer appeal, its core focus remains on business environments. This shift reflects that priority.

Rather than continue investing in UWP-based Store installations, Microsoft is focusing on a deployment model that emphasizes speed, scalability, and administrative control—key requirements for enterprise IT.

Ideally, Microsoft would prefer users to install apps via the Microsoft Store. Office apps were indeed made available there.

However, the Store version lacks support for XML configuration files, doesn’t function well in multi-user scenarios, and fails to integrate with enterprise tools like Microsoft Intune or Configuration Manager. Additionally, updates for Office were bundled with Windows Updates, leading to delays and inflexibility.

Given that Office (or Microsoft 365) is a cornerstone of enterprise computing and a major reason organizations stick with Windows, Microsoft has opted for a tailored, cloud-optimized installation method. Click-to-Run delivers Office directly from Microsoft’s global content delivery network.

This method allows users to start using Office apps before the full suite finishes downloading. Updates happen seamlessly in the background. It also offers extensive customization for IT administrators, including multiple update channels (such as Monthly Enterprise or Semi-Annual), telemetry settings, and centralized management through Microsoft 365 admin tools. This makes large-scale deployment and maintenance significantly easier—an outcome Microsoft clearly values.

Click-to-Run also enables faster rollout of new features like Microsoft Copilot across enterprise environments, without relying on Store update cycles.

How to Check Your Installation Type?

Open any Microsoft 365 (formerly Office) app, such as Word.

Go to File > Account on the left-hand side.

On the right panel, look next to the About Word button. You’ll see either Click-to-Run or Microsoft Store listed.

If it says Click-to-Run, your system is up to date. If it shows Microsoft Store, you should upgrade to Click-to-Run as soon as possible to continue receiving updates and new features.

How to Upgrade to Click-to-Run for Microsoft 365 Apps

The upgrade from Microsoft Store to Click-to-Run is free and straightforward.

First, save all open documents in your Office apps and close them completely, including Excel, Outlook, and others.

Go to the official Microsoft 365 download page for the installer. You may need to sign in with your Microsoft account—ensure it’s the same one linked to your Office subscription.

Click Download to get the Office Deployment Tool (ODT).

Run the downloaded .exe file. The installer will automatically detect your current Microsoft Store version, uninstall it, and reinstall Microsoft 365 using the Click-to-Run method.

Impact on End Users and IT Administrators

For everyday users, the switch will be seamless. There will be no noticeable change in how Office apps function. However, users may gain earlier access to advanced features like Microsoft Copilot. No new license is required, though certain Copilot capabilities may need an active Microsoft 365 subscription.

For IT administrators, the transition brings significant benefits. Managing deployments becomes more efficient, with support for controlled update channels, group policies, shared device licensing, and automated provisioning across thousands of devices.

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