Updates for Microsoft 365 Installed Through Windows Store to Be Discontinued

Microsoft has announced the discontinuation of the Microsoft Store installation for Office applications, pivoting exclusively towards the Click-to-Run deployment method. As a result of this transition, new feature updates for Microsoft 365 apps installed via the Store will cease in October 2025, followed by the termination of security updates in December 2026.

In a support document, Microsoft reiterated this shift, indicating, “New feature updates will stop in October 2025 and security updates will end in December 2026.” Consequently, users currently utilizing the Microsoft Store version are encouraged to migrate to Click-to-Run to remain current with features and security upgrades.

“The transition is essential for users who have the Microsoft Store installation type of Microsoft 365 Apps. Upgrading to the Click-to-Run installation type is necessary for ongoing access to new features and security updates, ” the company emphasized.

Understanding Microsoft 365 Installation Types

Microsoft 365 applications can be installed on Windows PCs through two primary methods: the Microsoft Store and Click-to-Run. While both installation types offer a similar user interface, their underlying architecture and deployment approaches differ significantly.

The Microsoft Store version employs the Appx packaging format, created primarily for Universal Windows Platform (UWP) applications. This method is sandboxed, akin to other apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store.

In contrast, the Click-to-Run method utilizes a proprietary streaming.exe installer engineered specifically for Office applications. This approach creates a virtualized environment, which keeps Office applications separate from the rest of the system while facilitating deep integration with Windows and other Microsoft 365 services.

Although Click-to-Run is informed by Microsoft’s Application Virtualization (App-V) principles, it functions as a distinct installation type, optimized for swift, cloud-based management and particularly advantageous for enterprise customers.

Reasons for Transitioning to Click-to-Run

Microsoft’s shift towards the Click-to-Run installation type reflects its longstanding commitment to enterprise-focused solutions. Despite attempts to broaden appeal among individual users, the company’s foundation remains firmly rooted in corporate environments.

The transition towards Click-to-Run centers on enhancing speed, scalability, and administrative control, which are critical components of a robust application model in enterprise IT scenarios.

While Microsoft ideally hopes users will download applications from the Microsoft Store, past limitations have hindered this goal. Microsoft Store installations lacked support for XML configuration files, multi-user systems, and integration with enterprise management tools like Intune or Configuration Manager, causing Office updates to be dependent on Windows Updates.

Given the integral role Microsoft 365 plays in the Windows ecosystem, the decision to adopt a more suitable installation method that aligns with cloud-native IT environments was expected. Clicking to Run enables users to begin utilizing applications before complete downloads and seamlessly manage background updates. This method also provides IT administrators with greater customization, supporting multiple update channels and controlled telemetry, facilitating efficient management of thousands of devices simultaneously—a reassuring prospect for Microsoft.

Moreover, Click-to-Run allows for quicker integration of features like Copilot into Office applications, circumventing the delays associated with Store updates.

Identifying Your Installation Type

To determine whether you are using the Microsoft Store or Click-to-Run installation type, follow these steps:

Open any Microsoft 365 application, such as Word.
Select the “File”menu, then click on “Account”located at the bottom left.
On the right side, near the “About Word”button, you will find either “Click-to-Run”or “Microsoft Store.”Each option includes a Version and Build number.

If you find that you are using the Click-to-Run installation type, you are set. However, if you are still on the Microsoft Store version, it is advisable to upgrade to Click-to-Run immediately to receive the latest features and security updates for your Office applications.

Steps to Upgrade to Click-to-Run Installation Type for Microsoft 365 Apps

The upgrade from the Microsoft Store installation type to Click-to-Run is straightforward and free of charge:

Begin by saving any open documents in your Office applications, then close all running instances of Microsoft 365 apps like Excel and Outlook.
Visit the official Microsoft 365 Installer download page. You may need to log in with your Microsoft account, ensuring it matches the one used for your Office applications.
Click the “Download”button to obtain the Office Deployment Tool (ODT).
After the download is complete, double-click the.exe file. The installer will automatically identify and remove the Microsoft Store version of Office, subsequently reinstalling it using the Click-to-Run method.

Implications for Users and IT Administrators

For regular users, the transition to Click-to-Run will not disrupt the overall usability experience. However, they may notice the introduction of newer features, including Copilot, within their Office applications without needing to buy a new license—though some Copilot functionalities may necessitate a Microsoft 365 subscription.

From an administrative standpoint, IT managers will find it easier to deploy Microsoft 365 apps. This streamlined process enables them to manage update channels, enforce company policies, control shared device activation, and automate provisioning across extensive networks of endpoints efficiently.

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