Keeping Microsoft Office up to date.

On 1 November 2021, older versions of Outlook for Windows will not be able to connect with Office 365 and Microsoft 365 services. This includes;

• Office 2013 - 15.0.4970.9999 and older
• Office 2016 - 16.0.4599.9999 and older
• Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise and business - 1705 and older

You can check your version of Outlook for Windows by looking under 'About' in the Outlook file menu. These older versions will no longer connect with Microsoft services, so you will no longer be able to send and receive email.

Fortunately, a subscription to Microsoft 365 (previously known as Office 365) will give you access to frequent application updates.

Why you should update frequently

Long gone are the days of putting a CD in your computer to load the latest Microsoft Office suite. With nearly all devices treated as mobile devices and App Stores providing updated applications on a weekly or monthly basis, the idea of large software releases is becoming less significant.

The advantage for users and software providers is that new features and security fixes can be rolled out quickly. Rather than large leaps in functionality, a constant iteration of improvements enables users to work more efficiently. However, with less emphasis placed on 'major updates' it can be easy to miss key changes in functionality.

How to update frequently

The good news is that Microsoft 365 will update automatically for you. Go to File > Account in any Office app, such as Word or Excel, and check to see if "Updates are automatically downloaded and installed" is checked. Updates will download and install in the background, usually after an application or the computer restarts, with no user intervention.

Strident customers can contact our Helpdesk for guidance on Microsoft Office updates. If you're not a Strident customer, then why not get in touch and see how we can support your business.