Applies To
Excel for the web Word for the web OneNote for the web PowerPoint for the web
Your browser does not support video. Install Microsoft Silverlight, Adobe Flash Player, or Internet Explorer 9.

Try it!

With the free Office Online apps, you can quickly switch to the full-featured desktop apps—without leaving your document.Note: In current versions of the online apps, the Edit in [app] button is labeled Edit pencil button Editing.

  1. In Word for the web, select Edit pencil button Editing in the top right.

    There’s a similar button in Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote for the web.

  2. Choose Open in Desktop. Select Open if you get a dialog about opening the app.

  3. If your document opens in Read Mode on the desktop, select Viewing and choose Edit pencil button Editing.

Want more?

Work seamlessly between Office Online and Office desktop applications

Free Office Online apps

Word help & learning

Excel training

PowerPoint training

Outlook training

OneNote training

Need more help?

Want more options?

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.