In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain what actually exists, why "free full version" downloads are risky, and—most importantly—how you can legally get Microsoft Office for free or at low cost.
: Scammers often use years like "2015" to trick users looking for older, "easier to crack" versions that do not actually exist.
But here is the twist: there is technically no such thing as "Microsoft Office 2015." This creates a confusing landscape for users looking for legitimate software. Did Microsoft skip a year? Is it a hidden release? And most importantly, how can you get a full-featured Office suite for free in 2024 without breaking the law or infecting your computer with malware?
If you need the functionality of Microsoft Office but cannot afford the subscription fee of Microsoft 365, do not turn to sketchy download sites. Here are the best ways to get Office legally—some of which are free.
Official Office versions receive regular security updates to patch vulnerabilities. A cracked version cannot connect to Microsoft’s update servers. This leaves your computer exposed to newly discovered exploits that hackers can use to access your system.