Microsoft Office for Windows currently has two modes of delivery for installations: Windows Installer (MSI) or Click-to-Run.
Windows Installer (MSI)
Windows Installer, also called Microsoft Installer or MSI, is the built-in service that allows files with .msi extensions to be installed on Windows computers.
Historically, users would install Microsoft Office products by downloading and running a .msi file. In recent years, however, Microsoft has been transitioning to the use of Click-to-Run technology to deliver installations.
Click-to-Run
Click-to-Run (CtR) is the newer way to install Office products. It is faster, safer, and easier to repair. Some products, such as Visio LTSC Professional 2021, only use Click-to-Run technology.
Software that uses CtR requires the use of the Office Deployment Tool. For assistance with using this tool, please contact the OIT Help Desk.
Which edition do I have?
Typically, users will not need to know which edition of Microsoft Office they have installed. Occasionally, however, a support page or person may ask you. Follow the steps below to determine whether your Office product is MSI or Click-to-Run.
- Open your Microsoft Office product’s Home page and click Account.
- Under Product Information, you can see the Version and Build numbers of your product. If your edition is Click-to-Run, the phrase “Click-to-Run” will appear after the Build number. If this phrase is not present, you are using the MSI version.
MSI
Click-to-Run
Still have questions about MSI or Click-to-Run technology? Contact the OIT Help Desk.