Understanding Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is a subscription that combines desktop and web apps with cloud storage and online services. This guide explains what is included and how to get started.
Last reviewed: November 2026
What is Microsoft 365?
Microsoft 365 is a subscription from Microsoft. It bundles Office apps such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint with services such as Outlook, Teams and OneDrive. Plans are sold for individuals, families and businesses. Office can also be bought as a one-time licence, which does not include the same cloud services.
Apps and services included
| App or service | Used for | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Word | Documents, letters and reports | Read |
| Excel | Spreadsheets, calculations and charts | Read |
| PowerPoint | Presentations and slides | Read |
| Outlook | Email, calendar and contacts | Read |
| Teams | Chat, meetings and collaboration | Read |
| OneDrive | Cloud storage and file sync | Read |
| OneNote | Digital notebooks | Read |
Choosing a plan
Plans differ in the apps they include, the number of users, storage and support. Before you buy, decide whether you need desktop apps, web apps or both, and whether the software is for personal, family or business use.
Getting started
- Sign in with the Microsoft account or work or school account that holds your subscription.
- Install the apps from your Microsoft account page, or use the web versions in a browser.
- Check your licence under Account in any Office app.
- Set up OneDrive to save and sync files across devices.
- Keep updates on so you receive new features and security fixes.
Common problems
An app asks me to activate or sign in
Sign in with the same account that holds your subscription, then check the account status under Account in the app.
My files do not appear on another device
Confirm you are signed in with the same account and that OneDrive is running and syncing on both devices.