The error is not limited to any particularOffice version.
So, how to fix this ghastly error that leaves you clueless?
Here is the short version.
You have a trial version of the Office installed.
You like what you see and decide to buy the official version and install that too.
You see the error This action is only valid for products that are currently installed.
Thats when you see the error.
Search for and open Control Panel from the Start menu.
Search for uninstall in the search bar and select Uninstall a program.
You will see a list of all the apps and software installed on your Windows 10 computer here.
Search for the trial version of Office that you have installed, and not the licensed version.
Then, select it, and press Uninstall at the top.
Remove any individual trial version of Office apps that you may have installed here.
Dont remember installing the trial version?
A trial version may have come pre-installed on your Windows 10 computer.
Sneaky but known to happen.
Sometimes, the error presents itself when the trial version expires and not before.
Pro Tip:Working on something urgent that cant wait?
you’re free to use thefree version of Officein the internet tool.
you’re able to always come back later to continue with the guide.
you might bookmark this page, so you dont have to hunt it down again.
Repair Licensed Version
Why should you repair the licensed version of the Office?
Thats because the conflict may result in corrupt files and whatnot.
These conflicts may continue to throw the validity error that we saw above.
Only this time, pick the licensed version and tap on Change.
tap on Allow when asked to let the app make changes to this system pop-up.
There are two options in front of you.
The Quick Repair will work offline and repair most issues with your Office installation.
Only choose this if you are in a hurry or dont have an active internet connection.
The second option is more recommended.
It will require an internet connection.
So verify you are connected to a Wi-Fi web connection.
This method will also take more time, so connect your machine to a power outlet.
On the plus side, it will resolve all issues.
punch Online Repair and follow on-screen instructions after that.
I would suggest a reboot after the repair is done before checking if Office is working correctly or not.
Note:The old Office shortcut that you might be using will no longer work.
Create a new shortcut for your desktop and/or Taskbar and then launch the app.
Uninstalling apps from the Control Panel may leave registry entries and some other junk files behind.
I would recommend usingRevo Uninstaller.
The app will cost you $25 and it is worth every dime.
You try the free version first as well.
That will remove existing apps but wont touch junk files of apps already removed.
If you dont want to invest right now, there are other ways.
The steps are simple.Download and runthe Uninstaller and go for the Office version you want to remove.
Reboot your rig once when asked, and finally, the uninstaller will remove Office.
You will see certain prompts/dialogue box asking for permission, so read and allow them.
If the app was installed from the Microsoft Store, you might have to uninstall it from there.
Again, Microsoft has written a detailed but easy guide on removing Office completely.
you might also install Office from theOffice Setup page.
Open it and follow the on-screen instructions from thereon.
And you are done.
Conflict of Interest
The problem is quite simple if you know what it is.
Two different versions of Office installed on the same machine, both vying for OSs and your attention.
That never ends well, even in real life!
Next up:Want to install two different versions of Office on the same computer?
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