Easy Tech TutsHow to Download Microsoft Excel 2021 for Free Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Downloading Excel 2021 safely means avoiding cracked installers and sketchy third-party sites that put your system at risk. This guide explains how to pull the genuine setup file directly from Microsoft, walks through installing it, and points to the legitimate free web alternative if you don't have a paid product key.
01Understand the licensing reality
There is no legal way to get a fully licensed standalone copy of Excel 2021 completely free forever; you need a valid product key to activate it, but you can still download the official installer for free to use with an existing license or test it.
02Get the official installation image
Use a verified Microsoft link directory to download the genuine Office 2021 installer image directly from Microsoft's servers rather than third-party download sites.
03Mount and run the installer
Right-click the downloaded image file and mount it, then open the resulting virtual folder and double-click setup.exe to begin installation.
04Complete the installation
Approve any system security prompts, wait for the installer to finish placing the Excel shortcuts, and click Close when the progress bar completes.
05Use the free cloud alternative if you lack a key
If you don't have a permanent product key, open Excel for the web through the Microsoft 365 portal to use core spreadsheet features completely free.
Frequently asked questions
Can I download Excel 2021 fully free without any key?
No, a legitimate standalone install of Excel 2021 requires a valid product key or subscription; only the free web version is truly free without one.
Is it safe to use sites offering pre-activated cracked downloads?
No, those sites are commonly scams that risk your system security and personal data, and they don't provide a legitimate license.
What if I already own a license but lost the installer?
You can safely redownload the official installer image from Microsoft's servers to reinstall a version you're already licensed for.
What's the difference between the desktop app and the free web app?
The desktop app offers the full feature set with an active license, while the free web app provides core spreadsheet functionality through your browser with no license required.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
