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I'm getting ready to build a new computer and want to move my Microsoft Office software to the new computer. Is there any way to accomplish this swap or will I have to buy all new software?

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Quick clarification for (and following ): whether you must buy a new copy depends on the exact Office license you own. Retail "one‑time purchase" editions can usually be moved to another personal PC if you remove them from the original machine; copies that came preinstalled (OEM) or some product‑key‑card (PKC) versions are normally tied to the original device; subscription (Microsoft 365) works differently and is managed by sign‑in and install limits. (support.microsoft.com)

If your license allows transfer, the practical sequence is: uninstall Office from the old machine, install the same Office edition on the new machine (matching version/build), then activate. Microsoft documents the reinstall/activation process and the need to follow the Software License Terms; historically phone activation was an option when online activation failed, but phone activation availability has recently changed in some cases so expect to use account‑based or online activation for newer products. (support.microsoft.com)

Before you move, back up any personal Office items that won’t transfer automatically: export Outlook mail/contacts to a .pst (File > Open & Export > Import/Export), copy Outlook signatures (the Signatures folder under %appdata%\Microsoft\Signatures), save Word templates/macros (Normal.dotm lives under %appdata%\Microsoft\Templates), custom dictionaries and any add‑ins. Keep those files on removable media so you can restore them after Office is installed on the new PC. (support.microsoft.com)

If you cannot find a product key, check whether the license was redeemed to a Microsoft account (modern perpetual copies and subscriptions often are). Otherwise reputable key‑finder utilities (for example ProduKey or Belarc Advisor) can extract keys from the old drive — use them with care and from official sites — or contact Microsoft Support with proof of purchase if activation fails. If the license turns out to be OEM/PKC and non‑transferable, consider buying a retail copy or moving to Microsoft 365. (nirsoft.net)

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Member Avatar for Xlphos

Do you have the installation CD/DVD?

Member Avatar for Tom9489

Yes, I have the installation CD.

Member Avatar for Xlphos

You should be okay reinstalling Office then as long as you have the serial number. Is there any other software you need to save?

I think there are some disc image programs that save an image of your hard drive but I don't know if it would work with another system.

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