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Repair an Office application

2020-09-21T18:03:02-07:00

If an Office application such as Word or Excel isn’t working correctly, sometimes restarting it will fix the problem. If that doesn’t work, you can try repairing it. When you’re done, you might need to restart your computer.

Repair Office from the Control Panel

The steps to access the repair tool vary depending on your operating system.

Windows 10

Right-click the Start button (lower-left corner), and select Apps and Features on the pop-up menu.

Select the Microsoft Office product you want to repair, and select Modify.

Note: This will repair the entire Office suite even if it's just one application you want to repair such as Word or Excel. If you have a standalone app installed, then search for that application by name.

Depending if your copy of Office is Click-to-run or MSI-based install, you'll see the following options to proceed with the repair. Follow the steps for your installation type.

Click-to-run

In the window How would you like to repair your Office Programs, select Online Repair > Repair to make sure everything gets fixed. (The faster Quick Repair option is also available, but it only detects and then replaces corrupted files.)

MSI-based

In Change your installation, select Repair and then click Continue.

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the repair.

Windows 8/8.1

Right-click the Start button (lower-left corner), and select Control Panel from the pop-up menu.

From Category view, under Programs, select Uninstall a program.

Right-click the Microsoft Office product you want to repair, and from the drop-down, select Change.

Note: If you have a suite such as Microsoft 365 Family, Office Home & Student 2016, or Office Home and Student 2013, search for the suite name, even if it's just a particular application you want to repair such as Word or Excel. If you have a standalone application such as Word or Excel, search for the application name.

Depending if your copy of Office is Click-to-run or an MSI-based install, do the following for your Office installation type:

Click-to-Run installation type:

In How would you like to repair your Office Programs, select Online Repair to make sure everything gets fixed, and then select Repair. (The faster Quick Repair option is also available, but it only detects and then replaces corrupted files.)

MSI-based installation type:

In Change your installation, select Repair and then click Continue.

Follow the remaining instructions on the screen to complete the repair.

Windows 7

Click the Start button > Control Panel.

From Category view, under Programs, select Uninstall a program.

Click the Office product you want to repair, and then click Change.

Depending if your copy of Office is Click-to-run or an MSI-based install, do the following for your Office installation type:

Click-to-Run installation type:

MSI-based installation type:

In Change your installation, select Repair and then click Continue.

Follow the remaining instructions on the screen to complete the repair.

Running Repair didn't help. Now what?

Use this easy fix tool to completely uninstall Office.

Click the button below to download and install the Office uninstall support tool.
Follow the steps below to download the uninstall support tool according to your browser.

Tip: The tool may take a few minutes to download and install. After completing the installation, the Uninstall Office products window will open.

Edge or Chrome

In the lower-lower left corner right-click SetupProd_OffScrub.exe > Open.

Edge (older) or Internet Explorer

At the bottom of the browser window, select Run to launch the SetupProd_OffScrub.exe.

Firefox

In the pop-up window, select Save Fileand then from the upper-right browser window, select the downloads arrow > SetupProd_OffScrub.exe.
Select the version you want to uninstall, and then select Next.
Follow through the remaining screens and when prompted, restart your computer.

After you restart your computer, the uninstall tool automatically re-opens to complete the final step of the uninstall process. Follow the remaining prompts.
Select the steps for the version of Office you want to install or reinstall. Close the uninstall tool.

Microsoft 365 | Office 2019 | Office 2016 | Office 2013 | Office 2010 | Office 2007

Is my Office Click-to-Run or MSI-based?

Open an Office application, such as Outlook or Word.
Go to File > Account or Office Account.
If you see an "Update Options" item, you have a Click-to-Run installation. If you don't see the "Update Options" item, you have an MSI-based install.

Move files off a Windows 7 PC with OneDrive

2020-07-21T12:21:00-07:00

If you've been using Windows 7 and you get a new PC, you probably have a lot of files that you want to move to the new PC--more than you can easily transfer on a USB thumb drive. By using OneDrive, you can quickly set up your new PC, so your files are organized like they were on your old PC and you can get right back to work.

Storing your files in OneDrive has other benefits, too:

You can get to your files from other devices. You can view and edit your files from the OneDrive mobile app for Android or OneDrive for iOS. You can also use any computer to go the OneDrive website and sign in to access your files.

Note: The Google Play store and the OneDrive app for Android aren't available in China. Also, because OneDrive.com is blocked in China by the government firewall, the OneDrive app won't work in China when you sign in with a Microsoft account.
If your new PC is ever lost or damaged, your files will still be backed up and protected in the cloud.

Install and set up OneDrive on your Windows 7 PC

A Microsoft account comes with 5 GB of OneDrive storage. You can subscribe to Microsoft 365 and get 1 TB of storage per person. Compare plans

Install the Windows version of the OneDrive sync app.
Notes:
- If you have Microsoft 365, or Office 2016, you already have the OneDrive sync app. To check if it's installed, click the Start button and search for OneDrive.
Start OneDrive Setup.
If you don't have a Microsoft account, sign up for one. It's free, and gives you access to OneDrive, Skype, Office for the web, and more. You can use your current email address or phone number, or create a new Outlook.com email address.
Follow the steps that appear on the screen until OneDrive Setup is finished.
Note: If you have a lot of large files on your Windows 7 PC, we recommend that you follow the next steps when you have the fastest possible internet connection. For example, connect to a wired connection instead of wireless if possible, and pick a time of day when other people in your household aren't transferring a lot of data over your Internet connection.

In the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, right-click the OneDrive white cloud icon, and then click Settings.

(You might need to select the Show hidden icons arrow ( ) next to the notification area to see the OneDrive icon.)
In the Back up your folders dialog box, select all the folders that have files you want to move to your new PC.
Select Start backup (or in older versions of OneDrive, select Start protection).
If you have files outside of your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders that you want to move to your new PC, use Windows Explorer. Press Windows key +E to open Windows Explorer and browse to the folders you want to move. Drag them to OneDrive in the left pane.
In the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, hover over the OneDrive white cloud icon to check the status of the files uploading to OneDrive.
Important:
- Make sure that you keep your PC connected to the Internet until all your files are finished uploading and the cloud icon says "Up to date." If an error appears, click the cloud icon for more info about what went wrong and how to fix it.
- If you plan to delete your files from your Windows 7 PC before you recycle it, make sure you unlink OneDrive first . Otherwise, you'll be deleting your files from the cloud and all your devices as well, including your new Windows 10 PC.

Set up your new PC

If you haven't yet set up your new PC, follow the steps that appear on the screens to complete Windows setup, making sure you connect the PC to the Internet during the process. When prompted, sign in with the same Microsoft account you used to set up OneDrive on your Windows 7 PC.

If you click Next all the way through Windows setup, including on the "Back up your files with OneDrive" screen, you'll be able to browse your files in File Explorer after setup finishes. The files from your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders on your Windows 7 computer will appear automatically in those locations on your Windows 10 computer.

Important: Before you recycle your old PC, use the new PC for a while to make sure you haven't forgotten any files that you wanted to move.

If you don't see your files in File Explorer on your Windows 10 computer, you might need to turn on PC folder backup.

Turn on PC folder backup

Follow these steps to make sure OneDrive is running and syncing your files.

Select the white OneDrive cloud icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
Notes:
- If you see a gray OneDrive cloud icon (instead of a white one), click the gray cloud and sign in to OneDrive with the same email address you used for OneDrive on your Windows 7 PC.
- You might need to click the Show hidden icons arrow next to the notification area to see the OneDrive icon. If the icon doesn't appear in the notification area, OneDrive might not be running. Select Start, type OneDrive in the search box, and then select OneDrive in the search results.
Select Help & Settings > Settings.
In OneDrive Settings, select Backup > Manage backup.
In the Back up your folders dialog box, make sure the folders that you want to back up are selected.
Select Start backup.
You can close the dialog box while your files sync to OneDrive. Or, to watch your files sync, select View upload progress. If you already closed the dialog box, select the cloud in the notification area to open the OneDrive activity center.

OneDrive has a feature called Files On-Demand that lets you browse your OneDrive files in File Explorer without actually downloading them to your PC. If you want to make sure that a file or folder is available on your device even when you're working offline, right-click it and select Always keep on this device.

Unlicensed Product and activation errors in Office

2020-07-08T17:19:00-07:00

When you go through activation of your Office product and it fails, you will see Unlicensed Product or Non-commercial use / Unlicensed Product in the title bar of your Office apps. This will cause most features of Office to be disabled. You will need to fix the problem that is causing the activation to fail.

Step 1: Sign in with the correct account

You may be logged into the wrong account. Try signing in using all your personal email addresses in case you bought Office using a different email address. If you're at work or school, you may need to log in using your work or school account instead of your personal email account.

Try this: Sign in to Office

Step 2: Check for multiple copies of Office

You may not realize you have more than one copy installed. Activation can fail if you have multiple copies of Office installed.

Try this: Check for multiple copies of Office

Step 3: Check your subscription status

If your subscription has expired, you'll see "We couldn't find any Office products." Renew your subscription to use Microsoft 365.

Try this: Check your subscription status

Step 4: Troubleshoot activation

If Office still won't activate, choose your Office version for additional troubleshooting help.

Microsoft 365

Office 2019 and Office 2016

Office 2013

Step 1: Sign in with the right account

Please try signing in using all your personal email addresses in case you bought Office using a different email address. If you're at work or school, you may need to log in using your work or school account instead of your personal email account.

To check if your Microsoft account is associated with Office, sign in to Services & subscriptions. Your Office product or Microsoft 365 subscription should be listed there. If it's not, your email address won't work for signing in to Office.

Step 2: Check for multiple copies of Office

Activation can fail if you have multiple copies of Office installed. Let's uninstall any versions of Office you aren't using before we continue to troubleshoot.

Open Control Panel using the steps below for your operating system:
- Windows 10 On the Windows 10 task bar, type Control Panel in the Type here to search box, select Control Panel in the search results, and then select Programs and Features .
- Windows 8.1 or 8 Right-click theStart button(lower-left corner), select Control Panel , and then select Programs and Features .
- Windows 7 ClickStart > Control Panel > Uninstall a program .
In the Search Programs and Features box (upper-right corner) of Programs and Features , search for the word office .

You might see multiple versions installed, like this:

If more than one version appears, right-click the version you aren't using and select Uninstall .

If only one version is listed, you can go to Step 3: Check your Microsoft 365 subscription status.
When the uninstall is finished, restart your computer.
Open an Office app and sign in, if prompted.
If Office still won't activate, try running an online repair as described in Repair an Office application to fix up the remaining install of Office. If you still can't activate, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Check your Microsoft 365 subscription status

If you have an Microsoft 365 for home subscription, let's make sure it's still active and renew your subscription, if necessary.

If you don't have Microsoft 365, you can skip to Step 4: Troubleshoot Office activation.

Close all Office apps.
Go to your Services & subscriptions page.
If prompted, choose Sign in and enter the Microsoft account email and password associated with your Microsoft 365 subscription.
Review the details under theSubscriptions heading or Cancelled subscriptions heading.
If your subscription has expired, you can renew it by following the steps in Renew Microsoft 365 Family.
After you renew your subscription, you can restart your Office apps as needed. If Office still won't activate, continue to the next step

Step 4: Troubleshoot Office activation

Select your version of Office for troubleshooting steps:

Microsoft 365

Office 2019 and Office 2016

Office 2013

Microsoft 365: Use the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant

The Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant runs on Windows PCs and can help you identify and fix activation issues with Microsoft 365.

Select the Download button below.
The Application Install dialog box opens. Select Install to start the installation.
The Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant opens in a new window. SelectI agree to accept the Microsoft Services Agreement.
Select Yes to allow the app to make changes to your device.
Follow the prompts to troubleshoot your Office activation issue.

If Office still won't activate after you run the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant, you can Fix Unlicensed Product errors yourself.

Office 2019 and Office 2016: Use the Activation Troubleshooter (non-subscription Office products)

The Activation Troubleshooter runs on Windows PCs and can fix activation errors for Office Home & Student, Office Home & Business, Office Professional, and individual Office apps, like Visio, Project, Word, and Outlook.

Select the Download button below.

If Office still won't activate after you run the Activation Troubleshooter, you can Fix Unlicensed Product errors yourself.

Fix Unlicensed Product errors yourself

If you've tried the earlier troubleshooting steps and Office is still unlicensed, you can troubleshoot activation failures yourself.

Try these first

Check your computer's date, time, and time zone

Run Office as administrator

Update Office

Repair Office licensing (Office 2013 only)

Check connectivity

Check your firewall

Check your antivirus software

Check your proxy settings

Check your computer's date, time, and time zone

If these settings aren't correct, Office activation might fail. Follow the steps below for your operating system.

Windows 10

Close all Office apps.
In the bottom right-hand corner of your screen, select the date or time.
Select Date and time settings .
Select Set time automatically and, if shown, Set time zone automatically . If you don't have the option to set the time zone automatically, make sure your local time zone is shown in Time zone .
Restart any Office app.

Windows 8 or Windows 8.1

Close all Office apps.
In the bottom right-hand corner of your screen, select the date or time.
Select Change date and time settings .
If the date or time is wrong, select Change date and time and correct the date and time settings.
If the time zone is wrong, select Change time zone and select your local time zone.
Restart any Office app.

Windows 7

Close all Office apps.
In the bottom right-hand corner of your screen, select the date or time.
Select Change date and time settings .
If the date or time is wrong, select Change date and time and correct the date and time settings.
If the time zone is wrong, select Change time zone and select your local time zone.
Restart any Office app.

Tip: In Windows 7, you can synchronize your computer clock with an Internet time server to keep the computer clock up to date. To do this, select the date or time in the bottom right-hand corner of your screen, and then select Change date and time settings . Select the Internet Time tab, selectChange settings , select Synchronize with an Internet time server , and then select Update now .

Run Office as administrator

Running Office as administrator helps fix permission issues that might cause Office activation to fail. Follow the steps below for your operating system.

Windows 10

Close all Office apps.
Press the Start button in the lower-left corner of your screen.
Type an application name, like Word . The Word program icon appears in the search results.
Right-click the Word icon, and select Run as administrator .
Select Yes to allow Office to run as administrator.

Windows 8.1

Close all Office apps.
In Windows 8.1, right-click the Start button in the lower-left corner of your screen, and then select Search .
Type an application name, like Word . The Word program icon appears in the search results.
Right-click the Word icon, and select Run as administrator .
Select Yes to allow Office to run as administrator.

Windows 8

Close all Office apps.
In Windows 8, move your mouse to the upper-right corner of your screen to open the charms bar, and then select the Search icon.
Type an application name, like Word . The Word program icon appears in the search results.
Right-click the Word icon, and select Run as administrator .
Select Yes to allow Office to run as administrator.

Windows 7

Close all Office apps.
Press the Start button in the lower-left corner of your screen.
In the Search programs and files box, type an application name, like Word . The Word program icon appears in the search results.
Right-click the Excel icon, and select Run as administrator .
If prompted, select Yes to allow Office to run as administrator.

Update Office

The latest Office updates might contain fixes to activation issues. To learn how to update Office, see Install Office updates.

Repair Office licensing (applies only to Office 2013)

If you’ve tried all of the other solutions but you’re still getting prompted to activate Office 2013, uninstall your product key and then sign in to activate Office.

Select this easy fix to uninstall your product key in Office 2013.
At the bottom of your browser, select Open .
After the easy fix tool is done, open any Office application, like Word or Excel.
When you’re prompted, sign in with the email and password that are associated with Office.

Check your firewall

If you're using a firewall from another manufacturer, visit the manufacturer's website for information about how to temporarily disable the firewall. For Windows Firewall, please see below.

Windows 10

Select the Start button > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security and then Firewall & network protection.
Select a network profile.
Under Microsoft Defender Firewall, switch the setting to On. If your device is connected to a network, network policy settings might prevent you from completing these steps. For more info, contact your administrator.
To turn it off, switch the setting to Off. Turning off Windows Defender Firewall could make your device (and network, if you have one) more vulnerable to unauthorized access. If there's an app you need to use that's being blocked, you can allow it through the firewall, instead of turning the firewall off.

Windows 8.1 and 7

Open Windows Firewall by clicking the Start button , and then clicking Control Panel. In the search box, type firewall, and then click Windows Firewall.
In the left pane, click Turn Windows Firewall on or off. If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
Click Turn on Windows Firewall under each network location that you want to help protect, and then click OK.
If you want the firewall to prevent all programs from communicating, including programs that you have previously allowed to communicate through the firewall, select the Block all incoming connections, including those in the list of allowed programs check box.

Warning

You should not turn off Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall enabled. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your computer (and your network, if you have one) more vulnerable to damage from worms or hackers.

Open Windows Firewall by clicking the Start button , and then clicking Control Panel. In the search box, type firewall, and then click Windows Firewall.
Click Turn Windows Firewall on or off. If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
Click Turn off Windows Firewall (not recommended) under each network location that you want to stop trying to protect, and then click OK.

Check your antivirus software

For information about how to turn off your antivirus software, check your antivirus manufacturer's website. Uninstalling your antivirus software may also help. Don't forget to reinstall it after Office is finished installing and if you turned it off, be sure to turn it on again.

If you're not sure which antivirus software you have, use the following instructions to get to Control Panel to find the name of your antivirus software.

Tip: Windows 10 comes with default antivirus software, Windows Defender. If you determine that you're using it, select theStart button >Settings > Update & Security , and then select Windows Defender on the left. Slide the button to Off . Remember to turn it On again.

Check your proxy settings

If you use your device both at home and at work, try turning off the proxy settings in Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer before you install Office. If you’re using a different browser, check their help to find out how to turn off proxy settings.

Microsoft Edge

Click the Start button(lower-left corner), and chooseSettings .
Select Network & Internet , go to the bottom of the selections on the left side, and click Proxy .
In Automatic proxy setup , automatically detect settings or use setup script, by sliding to On orOff .
In Manual proxy setup , you can choose to use a proxy server. Generally, it will be off and if you slide it to On , be sure to select Save . And if it was off by default before you turned it on, be sure to slide back to Off when you've finished using it.

Internet Explorer 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11

In Internet Explorer, click Tools (upper-right corner) > Internet options .
Click the Connections tab, and then click the LAN settings button.
Under Proxy server, clear the option "Use a proxy server for your LAN (These settings will not apply to dial-up or VPN connections)."
Click Apply andOK to save changes. Restart your computer.

Note: There might be more proxy settings that you need to bypass. If this doesn't work, and you’re installing Office from work or school, check with your IT department for more information. For IT administrators, please see Microsoft 365 URLs and IP address ranges.

Still need help? Contact Support

If you’ve tried everything in this article and still need help, you can email our support team using the form below.

How to take and annotate screenshots on Windows 10

2020-07-07T17:53:24-07:00

Sometimes the easiest way to make a copy of something is to take a snapshot of your screen. While you can already capture your screen using your keyboard’s PrtScn button, you can now press Windows logo key + Shift + S to open the new modern snipping experience (also called the snipping bar), then drag the cursor over the area you want to capture.

Here are some common ways to take and annotate screenshots in Snip & Sketch on Windows 10.

Take a screenshot

Option 1: Using the Snip & Sketch app 

Press the Start button and enter Snip & Sketch in the search field.
Press the New button to start snipping with the snipping bar.

The snipping bar allows you to capture the following types of snips:

Rectangular snip. Drag the cursor around an object to form a rectangle.
Free-form snip. Draw a free-form shape around an object.

Full-screen snip. Capture the entire screen.

Once you snip an area of your screen — the snipped image is added to your clipboard and you can paste it immediately in another app. A screen prompt will also allow you to annotate, save or share it using the Snip & Sketch app.

Option 2: With the Print Screen key 

While the PrtScn key already captures your full screen and sends it to your clipboard, opening the snipping bar provides you with more snipping tools you can use for precise snipping. For better control of your screen capturing options, you can opt to have your PrtScn key open the new snipping bar instead of having to type Windows logo key + Shift + S.

To turn on the new snipping feature keyboard shortcut Select Start > Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard

Option 3: With the Window logo key + Shift + S shortcut 

Pressing the S key + Windows logo + Shift keys down initiates the snipping bar at any time.

Annotate snips with Snip & Sketch

Opening images for editing with Snip & Sketch 

To open an image from Snip & Sketch, select Open File or drag and drop an image from apps like File Explorer or Photos in the Snip & Sketch window. 

Annotating images with Snip & Sketch 

Snip & Sketch provides a few tools for annotating images, namely pen, pencil and highlighter. Once you click a tool to select it, you can click it again to change its color or thickness.  

The tools work better with a pen device, but they can also be used with mouse or touch if you select the Touch Writing button icon.

Additional tools

Use the Eraser tool to remove specific strokes or click it twice to get the option to erase all ink. 
Use the ruler or protractor tools and draw straight lines or arches.
Press the ruler/protractor button again to hide the ruler/protractor
Reside or rotate the ruler/protractor by using two finger touch gestures (if the Touch Writing button is selected) or with the mouse wheel.
Use the crop tool to crop the annotated image.
To undo cropping, select the crop tool again and press Cancel to restore the image to its full original area.

Panning the view 

Some of the images you annotate might be larger than the size of the Snip & Sketch window. You can use the scroll bars to pan the view, but you can also pan the view with touch input (if the Touch Writing button is not selected) or by dragging with your mouse button while holding the Ctrl key down. 

Zoom

Zoom in and out of screenshots to make them easier to mark up using the magnifying glass icon. You can also zoom in and out of screenshots by pressing the Ctrl key down and tapping the + or - buttons.

Sharing and saving snips 

Snip & Sketch copies the annotated snip to your clipboard when you open it and every time you make edits. Snip & Sketch allows you to save the annotated image to a file, share it or open with another app, or print it on paper or to a pdf file. 

Using keyboard in Snip & Sketch 

While annotating is best done using a pen or mouse - Snip & Sketch provides a lot of keyboard shortcuts you can use. Access keys are activated if you press and hold the Alt key. 

Keyboard shortcuts to use in Snip & Sketch

Press these keys	To do this
Ctrl + N	Create a new snip
Ctrl + O	Open a file
Shift + arrow keys	Move the cursor to select a rectangular snip area
Ctrl + E	Select the eraser
Ctrl + P	Print an annotation
Ctrl + Z	Undo an annotation

Last Updated: Nov 12, 2019

Keyboard shortcuts in Windows

2020-06-26T16:54:00-07:00

Learn more about screenshots with Snip & Sketch

If you are trying to take a screenshot or screengrab, see How to take and annotate screenshots on Windows 10.

Windows 10

Keyboard shortcuts are keys or combinations of keys that provide an alternative way to do something that you’d typically do with a mouse. Click an option below, and it'll open to display a table of related shortcuts:

Copy, paste, and other general keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Ctrl + X	Cut the selected item.
Ctrl + C (or Ctrl + Insert)	Copy the selected item.
Ctrl + V (or Shift + Insert)	Paste the selected item.
Ctrl + Z	Undo an action.
Alt + Tab	Switch between open apps.
Alt + F4	Close the active item, or exit the active app.
Windows logo key + L	Lock your PC.
Windows logo key + D	Display and hide the desktop.
F2	Rename the selected item.
F3	Search for a file or folder in File Explorer.
F4	Display the address bar list in File Explorer.
F5	Refresh the active window.
F6	Cycle through screen elements in a window or on the desktop.
F10	Activate the Menu bar in the active app.
Alt + F8	Show your password on the sign-in screen.
Alt + Esc	Cycle through items in the order in which they were opened.
Alt + underlined letter	Perform the command for that letter.
Alt + Enter	Display properties for the selected item.
Alt + Spacebar	Open the shortcut menu for the active window.
Alt + Left arrow	Go back.
Alt + Right arrow	Go forward.
Alt + Page Up	Move up one screen.
Alt + Page Down	Move down one screen.
Ctrl + F4	Close the active document (in apps that are full-screen and let you have multiple documents open at the same time).
Ctrl + A	Select all items in a document or window.
Ctrl + D (or Delete)	Delete the selected item and move it to the Recycle Bin.
Ctrl + R (or F5)	Refresh the active window.
Ctrl + Y	Redo an action.
Ctrl + Right arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the next word.
Ctrl + Left arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous word.
Ctrl + Down arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the next paragraph.
Ctrl + Up arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous paragraph.
Ctrl + Alt + Tab	Use the arrow keys to switch between all open apps.
Alt + Shift + arrow keys	When a group or tile is in focus on the Start menu, move it in the direction specified.
Ctrl + Shift + arrow keys	When a tile is in focus on the Start menu, move it into another tile to create a folder.
Ctrl + arrow keys	Resize the Start menu when it's open.
Ctrl + arrow key (to move to an item) + Spacebar	Select multiple individual items in a window or on the desktop.
Ctrl + Shift with an arrow key	Select a block of text.
Ctrl + Esc	Open Start.
Ctrl + Shift + Esc	Open Task Manager.
Ctrl + Shift	Switch the keyboard layout when multiple keyboard layouts are available.
Ctrl + Spacebar	Turn the Chinese input method editor (IME) on or off.
Shift + F10	Display the shortcut menu for the selected item.
Shift with any arrow key	Select more than one item in a window or on the desktop, or select text in a document.
Shift + Delete	Delete the selected item without moving it to the Recycle Bin first.
Right arrow	Open the next menu to the right, or open a submenu.
Left arrow	Open the next menu to the left, or close a submenu.
Esc	Stop or leave the current task.
PrtScn	Take a screenshot of your whole screen and copy it to the clipboard. Note You can change this shortcut so it also opens screen snipping, which lets you edit your screenshot. Select Start > Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard, and turn on the toggle under Print Screen shortcut.

Windows logo key keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Windows logo key	Open or close Start.
Windows logo key + A	Open Action center.
Windows logo key + B	Set focus in the notification area.
Windows logo key + C	Open Cortana in listening mode. Notes This shortcut is turned off by default. To turn it on, select Start > Settings > Cortana, and turn on the toggle under Let Cortana listen for my commands when I press the Windows logo key + C. Cortana is available only in certain countries/regions, and some Cortana features might not be available everywhere. If Cortana isn't available or is turned off, you can still use search.
Windows logo key + Shift + C	Open the charms menu.
Windows logo key + D	Display and hide the desktop.
Windows logo key + Alt + D	Display and hide the date and time on the desktop.
Windows logo key + E	Open File Explorer.
Windows logo key + F	Open Feedback Hub and take a screenshot.
Windows logo key + G	Open Game bar when a game is open.
Windows logo key + H	Start dictation.
Windows logo key + I	Open Settings.
Windows logo key + J	Set focus to a Windows tip when one is available. When a Windows tip appears, bring focus to the Tip. Pressing the keyboard shortcuts again to bring focus to the element on the screen to which the Windows tip is anchored.
Windows logo key + K	Open the Connect quick action.
Windows logo key + L	Lock your PC or switch accounts.
Windows logo key + M	Minimize all windows.
Windows logo key + O	Lock device orientation.
Windows logo key + P	Choose a presentation display mode.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Q	Open Quick Assist.
Windows logo key + R	Open the Run dialog box.
Windows logo key + S	Open search.
Windows logo key + Shift + S	Take a screenshot of part of your screen.
Windows logo key + T	Cycle through apps on the taskbar.
Windows logo key + U	Open Ease of Access Center.
Windows logo key + V	Open the clipboard. Note To activate this shortcut, select Start > Settings > System > Clipboard, and turn on the toggle under Clipboard history.
Windows logo key + Shift + V	Cycle through notifications.
Windows logo key + X	Open the Quick Link menu.
Windows logo key + Y	Switch input between Windows Mixed Reality and your desktop.
Windows logo key + Z	Show the commands available in an app in full-screen mode.
Windows logo key + period (.) or semicolon (;)	Open emoji panel.
Windows logo key + comma (,)	Temporarily peek at the desktop.
Windows logo key + Pause	Display the System Properties dialog box.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + F	Search for PCs (if you're on a network).
Windows logo key + Shift + M	Restore minimized windows on the desktop.
Windows logo key + number	Open the desktop and start the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number. If the app is already running, switch to that app.
Windows logo key + Shift + number	Open the desktop and start a new instance of the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + number	Open the desktop and switch to the last active window of the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
Windows logo key + Alt + number	Open the desktop and open the Jump List for the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Shift + number	Open the desktop and open a new instance of the app located at the given position on the taskbar as an administrator.
Windows logo key + Tab	Open Task view.
Windows logo key + Up arrow	Maximize the window.
Windows logo key + Down arrow	Remove current app from screen or minimize the desktop window.
Windows logo key + Left arrow	Maximize the app or desktop window to the left side of the screen.
Windows logo key + Right arrow	Maximize the app or desktop window to the right side of the screen.
Windows logo key + Home	Minimize all except the active desktop window (restores all windows on second stroke).
Windows logo key + Shift + Up arrow	Stretch the desktop window to the top and bottom of the screen.
Windows logo key + Shift + Down arrow	Restore/minimize active desktop windows vertically, maintaining width.
Windows logo key + Shift + Left arrow or Right arrow	Move an app or window in the desktop from one monitor to another.
Windows logo key + Spacebar	Switch input language and keyboard layout.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Spacebar	Change to a previously selected input.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Enter	Turn on Narrator.
Windows logo key + Plus (+)	Open Magnifier.
Windows logo key + forward slash (/)	Begin IME reconversion.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + V	Open shoulder taps.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Shift + B	Wake PC from blank or black screen

Command Prompt keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Ctrl + C (or Ctrl + Insert)	Copy the selected text.
Ctrl + V (or Shift + Insert)	Paste the selected text.
Ctrl + M	Enter Mark mode.
Alt + selection key	Begin selection in block mode.
Arrow keys	Move the cursor in the direction specified.
Page up	Move the cursor by one page up.
Page down	Move the cursor by one page down.
Ctrl + Home (Mark mode)	Move the cursor to the beginning of the buffer.
Ctrl + End (Mark mode)	Move the cursor to the end of the buffer.
Ctrl + Up arrow	Move up one line in the output history.
Ctrl + Down arrow	Move down one line in the output history.
Ctrl + Home (History navigation)	If the command line is empty, move the viewport to the top of the buffer. Otherwise, delete all the characters to the left of the cursor in the command line.
Ctrl + End (History navigation)	If the command line is empty, move the viewport to the command line. Otherwise, delete all the characters to the right of the cursor in the command line.

Dialog box keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
F4	Display the items in the active list.
Ctrl + Tab	Move forward through tabs.
Ctrl + Shift + Tab	Move back through tabs.
Ctrl + number (number 1–9)	Move to nth tab.
Tab	Move forward through options.
Shift + Tab	Move back through options.
Alt + underlined letter	Perform the command (or select the option) that is used with that letter.
Spacebar	Select or clear the check box if the active option is a check box.
Backspace	Open a folder one level up if a folder is selected in the Save As or Open dialog box.
Arrow keys	Select a button if the active option is a group of option buttons.

File Explorer keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Alt + D	Select the address bar.
Ctrl + E	Select the search box.
Ctrl + F	Select the search box.
Ctrl + N	Open a new window.
Ctrl + W	Close the active window.
Ctrl + mouse scroll wheel	Change the size and appearance of file and folder icons.
Ctrl + Shift + E	Display all folders above the selected folder.
Ctrl + Shift + N	Create a new folder.
Num Lock + asterisk (*)	Display all subfolders under the selected folder.
Num Lock + plus (+)	Display the contents of the selected folder.
Num Lock + minus (-)	Collapse the selected folder.
Alt + P	Display the preview panel.
Alt + Enter	Open the Properties dialog box for the selected item.
Alt + Right arrow	View the next folder.
Alt + Up arrow	View the folder that the folder was in.
Alt + Left arrow	View the previous folder.
Backspace	View the previous folder.
Right arrow	Display the current selection (if it's collapsed), or select the first subfolder.
Left arrow	Collapse the current selection (if it's expanded), or select the folder that the folder was in.
End	Display the bottom of the active window.
Home	Display the top of the active window.
F11	Maximize or minimize the active window.

Virtual desktops keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Windows logo key + Tab	Open Task view.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + D	Add a virtual desktop.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Right arrow	Switch between virtual desktops you’ve created on the right.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Left arrow	Switch between virtual desktops you’ve created on the left.
Windows logo key + Ctrl + F4	Close the virtual desktop you're using.

Taskbar keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Shift + click a taskbar button	Open an app or quickly open another instance of an app.
Ctrl + Shift + click a taskbar button	Open an app as an administrator.
Shift + right-click a taskbar button	Show the window menu for the app.
Shift + right-click a grouped taskbar button	Show the window menu for the group.
Ctrl + click a grouped taskbar button	Cycle through the windows of the group.

Settings keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Windows logo key + I	Open settings.
Backspace	Go back to the settings home page.
Type on any page with search box	Search settings.

Windows 8.1 & Windows 8.1 RT

Top keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Ctrl + C (or Ctrl + Insert)	Copy the selected item
Ctrl + X	Cut the selected item
Ctrl + V (or Shift + Insert)	Paste the selected item
Ctrl + Z	Undo an action
Alt + Tab	Switch between open apps
Alt + F4	Close the active item, or exit the active app
Windows logo key + L	Lock your PC or switch accounts
Windows logo key + D	Display and hide the desktop

New keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Windows logo key + start typing	Search your PC
Ctrl + plus (+) or Ctrl + minus (-)	Zoom in or out of a large number of items, like apps pinned to the Start screen
Ctrl + scroll wheel	Zoom in or out of a large number of items, like apps pinned to the Start screen
Windows logo key‌ + C	Open the charms In an app, open the commands for the app
Windows logo key + F	Open the Search charm to search files
Windows logo key + H	Open the Share charm
Windows logo key + I	Open the Settings charm
Windows logo key + K	Open the Devices charm
Windows logo key‌ + O	Lock the screen orientation (portrait or landscape)
Windows logo key‌ + Q	Open the Search charm to search everywhere or within an open app (if the app supports app search)
Windows logo key + S	Open the Search charm to search Windows and the web
Windows logo key‌ + W	Open the Search charm to search settings
Windows logo key‌ + Z	Show the commands available in the app Note You can also see some settings and options by going to the Settings charm when the app is open.
Windows logo key‌ + spacebar	Switch input language and keyboard layout
Windows logo key‌ + Ctrl + spacebar	Change to a previously selected input
Windows logo key‌ + Tab	Cycle through recently used apps (except desktop apps)
Windows logo key‌ + Ctrl + Tab	Cycle through recently used apps (except desktop apps)
Windows logo key‌ + Shift + Tab	Cycle through recently used apps (except desktop apps) in reverse order
Windows logo key‌ + Shift + period (.)	Snaps an app to the left
Windows logo key‌ + period (.)	Cycle through open apps
Esc	Stop or exit the current task
Windows logo key‌ + Ctrl + Shift + B	Wake PC from black or blank screen

General keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
F1	Display Help
F2	Rename the selected item
F3	Search for a file or folder
F4	Display the address bar list in File Explorer
F5	Refresh the active window
F6	Cycle through screen elements in a window or on the desktop
F10	Activate the Menu bar in the active app
Alt + F4	Close the active item, or exit the active app
Alt + Esc	Cycle through items in the order in which they were opened
Alt + underlined letter	Perform the command for that letter
Alt + Enter	Display properties for the selected item
Alt + Spacebar	Open the shortcut menu for the active window
Alt + Left arrow	Back
Alt + Right arrow	Forward
Alt + Page Up	Move up one screen
Alt + Page Down	Move down one screen
Alt + Tab	Switch between open apps (except desktop apps)
Ctrl + F4	Close the active document (in apps that are full-screen and allow you to have multiple documents open simultaneously)
Ctrl + A	Select all items in a document or window
Ctrl + C (or Ctrl + Insert)	Copy the selected item
Ctrl + D (or Delete)	Delete the selected item and move it to the Recycle Bin
Ctrl + R (or F5)	Refresh the active window
Ctrl + V (or Shift + Insert)	Paste the selected item
Ctrl + X	Cut the selected item
Ctrl + Y	Redo an action
Ctrl + Z	Undo an action
Ctrl + plus (+) or Ctrl + minus (-)	Zoom in or out of a large number of items, like apps pinned to the Start screen
Ctrl + mouse scroll wheel	Change the size of desktop icons or zoom in or out of a large number of items, like apps pinned to the Start screen
Ctrl + Right arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the next word
Ctrl + Left arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous word
Ctrl + Down arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the next paragraph
Ctrl + Up arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous paragraph
Ctrl + Alt + Tab	Use the arrow keys to switch between all open apps
Ctrl + arrow key (to move to an item) + Spacebar	Select multiple individual items in a window or on the desktop
Ctrl + Shift with an arrow key	Select a block of text
Ctrl + Esc	Open Start
Ctrl + Shift + Esc	Open Task Manager
Ctrl + Shift	Switch the keyboard layout when multiple keyboard layouts are available
Ctrl + Spacebar	Turn the Chinese input method editor (IME) on or off
Shift + F10	Display the shortcut menu for the selected item
Shift with any arrow key	Select more than one item in a window or on the desktop, or select text within a document
Shift + Delete	Delete the selected item without moving it to the Recycle Bin first
Right arrow	Open the next menu to the right, or open a submenu
Left arrow	Open the next menu to the left, or close a submenu
Esc	Stop or leave the current task

Windows logo key keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Windows logo key + F1	Open Windows Help and Support
Windows logo key	Display or hide the Start screen
Windows logo key + B	Set focus in the notification area
Windows logo key‌ + C	Open the Charms
Windows logo key + D	Display and hide the desktop
Windows logo key + E	Open File Explorer
Windows logo key + F	Open the Search charm and search for files
Windows logo key + H	Open the Share charm
Windows logo key + I	Open the Settings charm
Windows logo key + K	Open the Devices charm
Windows logo key + L	Lock your PC or switch people
Windows logo key + M	Minimize all windows
Windows logo key + O	Lock device orientation
Windows logo key + P	Choose a presentation display mode
Windows logo key + Q	Open the Search charm to search everywhere or within the open app (if the app supports app search)
Windows logo key + R	Open the Run dialog box
Windows logo key + S	Open the Search charm to search Windows and the web
Windows logo key + T	Cycle through apps on the taskbar
Windows logo key + U	Open Ease of Access Center
Windows logo key + V	Cycle through notifications
Windows logo key + Shift + V	Cycle through notifications in reverse order
Windows logo key + X	Open the Quick Link menu
Windows logo key + Z	Show the commands available in an app Note You can also see some settings and options by going to the Settings charm when the app is open.
Windows logo key + ,	Temporarily peek at the desktop
Windows logo key + Pause	Display the System Properties dialog box
Windows logo key + Ctrl + F	Search for PCs (if you're on a network)
Windows logo key + Shift + M	Restore minimized windows on the desktop
Windows logo key + number	Open the desktop and start the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number. If the app is already running, switch to that app.
Windows logo key + Shift + number	Open the desktop and start a new instance of the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Windows logo key + Ctrl + number	Open the desktop and switch to the last active window of the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Windows logo key + Alt + number	Open the desktop and open the Jump List for the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Shift + number	Open the desktop and open a new instance of the app located at the given position on the taskbar as an administrator
Windows logo key + Tab	Cycle through recently used apps (except desktop apps)
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Tab	Cycle through recently used apps (except desktop apps)
Windows logo key + Shift + Tab	Cycle through recently used apps (except desktop apps) in reverse order
Windows logo key + Ctrl + B	Switch to the app that displayed a message in the notification area
Windows logo key + Up arrow	Maximize the window
Windows logo key + Down arrow	Remove current app from screen or minimize the desktop window
Windows logo key + Left arrow	Maximize the app or desktop window to the left side of the screen
Windows logo key + Right arrow	Maximize the app or desktop window to the right side of the screen
Windows logo key + Home	Minimize all but the active desktop window (restores all windows on second stroke)
Windows logo key + Shift + Up arrow	Stretch the desktop window to the top and bottom of the screen
Windows logo key + Shift + Down arrow	Restore/minimize active desktop windows vertically, maintaining width
Windows logo key + Shift + Left arrow or Right arrow	Move an app or window in the desktop from one monitor to another
Windows logo key + Spacebar	Switch input language and keyboard layout
Windows logo key + Ctrl + Spacebar	Change to a previously selected input
Windows logo key + Enter	Open Narrator
Windows logo key + Shift + period (.)	Cycle through open apps
Windows logo key + period (.)	Cycle through open apps
Windows logo key + /	Initiate IME reconversion
Windows logo key + Alt + Enter	Open WindowsMedia Center
Windows logo key + plus (+) or minus (-)	Zoom in or out using Magnifier
Windows logo key + Esc	Exit Magnifier

Dialog box keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
F1	Display Help
F4	Display the items in the active list
Ctrl + Tab	Move forward through tabs
Ctrl + Shift + Tab	Move back through tabs
Ctrl + number (number 1–9)	Move to nth tab
Tab	Move forward through options
Shift + Tab	Move back through options
Alt + underlined letter	Perform the command (or select the option) that goes with that letter
Spacebar	Select or clear the check box if the active option is a check box
Backspace	Open a folder one level up if a folder is selected in the Save As or Open dialog box
Arrow keys	Select a button if the active option is a group of option buttons

File explorer keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Alt + D	Select the address bar
Ctrl + E	Select the search box
Ctrl + F	Select the search box
Ctrl + N	Open a new window
Ctrl + W	Close the current window
Ctrl + mouse scroll wheel	Change the size and appearance of file and folder icons
Ctrl + Shift + E	Display all folders above the selected folder
Ctrl + Shift + N	Create a new folder
Num Lock + asterisk (*)	Display all subfolders under the selected folder
Num Lock + plus (+)	Display the contents of the selected folder
Num Lock + minus (-)	Collapse the selected folder
Alt + P	Display the preview pane
Alt + Enter	Open the Properties dialog box for the selected item
Alt + Right arrow	View the next folder
Alt + Up arrow	View the folder that the folder was in
Alt + Left arrow	View the previous folder
Backspace	View the previous folder
Right arrow	Display the current selection (if it's collapsed), or select the first subfolder
Left arrow	Collapse the current selection (if it's expanded), or select the folder that the folder was in
End	Display the bottom of the active window
Home	Display the top of the active window
F11	Maximize or minimize the active window

Taskbar keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Shift + click a taskbar button	Open an app or quickly open another instance of an app
Ctrl + Shift + click a taskbar button	Open an app as an administrator
Shift + right-click a taskbar button	Show the window menu for the app
Shift + right-click a grouped taskbar button	Show the window menu for the group
Ctrl + click a grouped taskbar button	Cycle through the windows of the group

Remote Desktop Connection on the desktop keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Alt + Page Up	Move between apps from left to right
Alt + Page Down	Move between apps from right to left
Alt + Insert	Cycle through apps in the order that they were started
Alt + Home	Display the Start screen
Ctrl + Alt + Break	Switch between a window and full screen
Ctrl + Alt + End	Display the Windows Security dialog box
Ctrl + Alt + Home	In full-screen mode, activate the connection bar
Alt + Delete	Display the system menu
Ctrl + Alt + minus (-) on the numeric keypad	Place a copy of the active window, within the client, on the Terminal server clipboard (provides the same functionality as pressing Alt+Print Screen on a local PC)
Ctrl + Alt + plus (+) on the numeric keypad	Place a copy of the entire client window area on the Terminal server clipboard (provides the same functionality as pressing Print Screen on a local PC)
Ctrl + Alt + Right arrow	“Tab” out of the Remote Desktop controls to a control in the host app (for example, a button or a text box). Useful when the Remote Desktop controls are embedded in another (host) app.
Ctrl + Alt + Left arrow	“Tab” out of the Remote Desktop controls to a control in the host app (for example, a button or a text box). Useful when the Remote Desktop controls are embedded in another (host) app.

Windows Help viewer keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
F3	Move the cursor to the search box
F10	Display the Options menu
Home	Move to the beginning of a topic
End	Move to the end of a topic
Alt + Left arrow	Move back to the previously viewed topic
Alt + Right arrow	Move forward to the next (previously viewed) topic
Alt + Home	Display the Help and Support home page
Alt + A	Display the customer support page
Alt + C	Display the Table of Contents
Alt + N	Display the Connection Settings menu
Ctrl + F	Search the current topic
Ctrl + P	Print a topic

App rearranging shortcuts

Note

Keep the Windows logo key pressed down continuously while you're rearranging apps, from the moment you enter rearrange mode and through all the various rearrange commands. When you're done rearranging, release your finger from the Windows logo key to select the current arrangement.

Press this key	To do this
Windows logo key + . (period)	Enter rearrange mode and select apps or dividers across monitors
Windows logo key + left arrow	Move app divider left
Windows logo key + right arrow	Move app divider right
Windows logo key + up arrow	Maximize app
Windows logo key + down arrow	Close app
Windows logo key + Esc	Exit rearrange mode

Windows 7

Support for Windows 7 ended on January 14, 2020

We recommend you move to a Windows 10 PC to continue to receive security updates from Microsoft.

Learn more

General keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
F1	Display Help
Ctrl + C (or Ctrl + Insert)	Copy the selected item
Ctrl + X	Cut the selected item
Ctrl + V (or Shift + Insert)	Paste the selected item
Ctrl + Z	Undo an action
Ctrl + Y	Redo an action
Delete (or Ctrl + D)	Delete the selected item and move it to the Recycle Bin
Shift + Delete	Delete the selected item without moving it to the Recycle Bin first
F2	Rename the selected item
Ctrl + Right Arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the next word
Ctrl + Left Arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous word
Ctrl + Down Arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the next paragraph
Ctrl + Up Arrow	Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous paragraph
Ctrl + Shift with an arrow key	Select a block of text
Shift with any arrow key	Select more than one item in a window or on the desktop, or select text within a document
Ctrl with any arrow key + Spacebar	Select multiple individual items in a window or on the desktop
Ctrl + A	Select all items in a document or window
F3	Search for a file or folder
Alt + Enter	Display properties for the selected item
Alt + F4	Close the active item, or exit the active program
Alt + Spacebar	Open the shortcut menu for the active window
Ctrl + F4	Close the active document (in programs that allow you to have multiple documents open simultaneously)
Alt + Tab	Switch between open items
Ctrl + Alt + Tab	Use the arrow keys to switch between open items
Ctrl + Mouse scroll wheel	Change the size of icons on the desktop
Windows logo key + Tab	Cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Aero Flip 3-D
Ctrl+Windows logo key + Tab	Use the arrow keys to cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Aero Flip 3-D
Alt + Esc	Cycle through items in the order in which they were opened
F6	Cycle through screen elements in a window or on the desktop
F4	Display the address bar list in Windows Explorer
Shift + F10	Display the shortcut menu for the selected item
Ctrl + Esc	Open the Start menu
Alt + underlined letter	Display the corresponding menu
Alt + underlined letter	Perform the menu command (or other underlined command)
F10	Activate the menu bar in the active program
Right Arrow	Open the next menu to the right, or open a submenu
Left Arrow	Open the next menu to the left, or close a submenu
F5 (or Ctrl + R)	Refresh the active window
Alt + Up Arrow	View the folder one level up in Windows Explorer
Esc	Cancel the current task
Ctrl + Shift + Esc	Open Task Manager
Shift when you insert a CD	Prevent the CD from automatically playing
Left Alt + Shift	Switch the input language when multiple input languages are enabled
Ctrl+Shift	Switch the keyboard layout when multiple keyboard layouts are enabled
Right or Left Ctrl + Shift	Change the reading direction of text in right-to-left reading languages

Dialog box keyboard shortcuts

The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for use in dialog boxes.

Press this key	To do this
Ctrl + Tab	Move forward through tabs
Ctrl + Shift + Tab	Move back through tabs
Tab	Move forward through options
Shift + Tab	Move back through options
Alt + underlined letter	Perform the command (or select the option) that goes with that letter
Enter	Replaces clicking the mouse for many selected commands
Spacebar	Select or clear the check box if the active option is a check box
Arrow keys	Select a button if the active option is a group of option buttons
F1	Display Help
F4	Display the items in the active list
Backspace	Open a folder one level up if a folder is selected in the Save As or Open dialog box

Windows logo key keyboard shortcuts

The following table contains keyboard shortcuts that use the Windows logo key

Press this key	To do this
Windows logo key	Open or close the Start menu.
Windows logo key + Pause	Display the System Properties dialog box.
Windows logo key + D	Display the desktop.
Windows logo key + M	Minimize all windows.
Windows logo key + Shift + M	Restore minimized windows to the desktop.
Windows logo key + E	Open Computer.
Windows logo key + F	Search for computers (if you're on a network).
Windows logo key + L	Lock your computer or switch users.
Windows logo key + R	Open the Run dialog box.
Windows logo key + T	Cycle through programs on the taskbar.
Windows logo key + number	Start the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number. If the program is already running, switch to that program.
Shift+Windows logo key + number	Start a new instance of the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
Ctrl+Windows logo key + number	Switch to the last active window of the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
Alt+Windows logo key + number	Open the Jump List for the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
Windows logo key + Tab	Cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Aero Flip 3-D.
Ctrl+Windows logo key + Tab	Use the arrow keys to cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Aero Flip 3-D.
Ctrl+Windows logo key + B	Switch to the program that displayed a message in the notification area.
Windows logo key + Spacebar	Preview the desktop.
Windows logo key + Up Arrow	Maximize the window.
Windows logo key + Left Arrow	Maximize the window to the left side of the screen.
Windows logo key + Right Arrow	Maximize the window to the right side of the screen.
Windows logo key + Down Arrow	Minimize the window.
Windows logo key + Home	Minimize all but the active window.
Windows logo key + Shift + Up Arrow	Stretch the window to the top and bottom of the screen.
Windows logo key + Shift + Left Arrow or Right Arrow	Move a window from one monitor to another.
Windows logo key + P	Choose a presentation display mode.
Windows logo key + G	Cycle through gadgets.
Windows logo key + U	Open Ease of Access Center.
Windows logo key + X	Open Windows Mobility Center.

Windows Explorer keyboard shortcuts

Press this key	To do this
Ctrl + N	Open a new window
Ctrl + W	Close the current window
Ctrl + Shift + N	Create a new folder
End	Display the bottom of the active window
Home	Display the top of the active window
F11	Maximize or minimize the active window
Ctrl + Period (.)	Rotate a picture clockwise
Ctrl + Comma (,)	Rotate a picture counter-clockwise
Num Lock + Asterisk (*) on numeric keypad	Display all subfolders under the selected folder
Num Lock + Plus Sign (+) on numeric keypad	Display the contents of the selected folder
Num Lock + Minus Sign (-) on numeric keypad	Collapse the selected folder
Left Arrow	Collapse the current selection (if it's expanded), or select the parent folder
Alt + Enter	Open the Properties dialog box for the selected item
Alt + P	Display the preview pane
Alt + Left Arrow	View the previous folder
Backspace	View the previous folder
Right Arrow	Display the current selection (if it's collapsed), or select the first subfolder
Alt + Right Arrow	View the next folder
Alt + Up Arrow	View the parent folder
Ctrl + Shift + E	Display all folders above the selected folder
Ctrl + Mouse scroll wheel	Change the size and appearance of file and folder icons
Alt + D	Select the address bar
Ctrl + E	Select the search box
Ctrl + F	Select the search box

Taskbar keyboard shortcuts

The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with items on the desktop taskbar.

Press this key	To do this
Shift + click a taskbar button	Open a program or quickly open another instance of a program
Ctrl + Shift + click a taskbar button	Open a program as an administrator
Shift + right-click a taskbar button	Show the window menu for the program
Shift + right-click a grouped taskbar button	Show the window menu for the group
Ctrl + click a grouped taskbar button	Cycle through the windows of the group

Remote Desktop Connection on the desktop keyboard shortcuts

The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with Remote Desktop Connection.

Press this key	To do this
Alt + Page Up	Move between apps from left to right
Alt + Page Down	Move between apps from right to left
Alt + Insert	Cycle through programs in the order that they were started in.
Alt + Home	Display the Start menu.
Ctrl + Alt + Break	Switch between a window and full screen
Ctrl + Alt + End	Display the Windows Security dialog box
Alt + Delete	Display the system menu.
Ctrl + Alt + Minus Sign (-) on the numeric keypad	Place a copy of the active window, within the client, on the Terminal server clipboard (provides the same functionality as pressing Alt+PrtScn on a local computer).
Ctrl + Alt + Plus Sign (+) on the numeric keypad	Place a copy of the entire client window area on the Terminal server clipboard (provides the same functionality as pressing PrtScn on a local computer).
Ctrl + Alt + Right Arrow	“Tab” out of the Remote Desktop controls to a control in the host program (for example, a button or a text box). Useful when the Remote Desktop controls are embedded in another (host) program.
Ctrl + Alt + Left Arrow	“Tab” out of the Remote Desktop controls to a control in the host program (for example, a button or a text box). Useful when the Remote Desktop controls are embedded in another (host) program.

Note

Ctrl+Alt+Break and Ctrl+Alt+End are available in all Remote Desktop sessions, even when you've set up the remote computer to recognize Windows keyboard shortcuts.

Paint keyboard shortcuts

The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with Paint.

Press this key	To do this
Ctrl + N	Create a new picture
Ctrl + O	Open an existing picture
Ctrl + S	Save changes to a picture
F12	Save the picture as a new file
Ctrl + P	Print a picture
Alt + F4	Close a picture and its Paint window
Ctrl + Z	Undo a change
Ctrl + Y	Redo a change
Ctrl + A	Select the entire picture
Ctrl + X	Cut a selection
Ctrl + C	Copy a selection to the Clipboard
Ctrl + V	Paste a selection from the Clipboard
Right Arrow	Move the selection or active shape right by one pixel
Left Arrow	Move the selection or active shape left by one pixel
Down Arrow	Move the selection or active shape down by one pixel
Up Arrow	Move the selection or active shape up by one pixel
Esc	Cancel a selection
Delete	Delete a selection
Ctrl + B	Bold selected text
Ctrl + +	Increase the width of a brush, line, or shape outline by one pixel
Ctrl + -	Decrease the width of a brush, line, or shape outline by one pixel
Ctrl + U	Underline selected text
Ctrl + E	Open the Properties dialog box
Ctrl + W	Open the Resize and Skew dialog box
Ctrl + Page Up	Zoom in
Ctrl + Page Down	Zoom out
F11	View a picture in full-screen mode
Ctrl + R	Show or hide the ruler
Ctrl + G	Show or hide gridlines
F10 or Alt	Display keytips
Shift + F10	Show the current shortcut menu
F1	Open Paint Help

WordPad keyboard shortcuts

The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with WordPad.

Press this key	To do this
Ctrl + N	Create a new document
Ctrl + O	Open an existing document
Ctrl + S	Save changes to a document
F12	Save the document as a new file
Ctrl + P	Print a document
Alt + F4	Close WordPad
Ctrl + Z	Undo a change
Ctrl + Y	Redo a change
Ctrl + A	Select the entire document
Ctrl + X	Cut a selection
Ctrl + C	Copy a selection to the Clipboard
Ctrl + V	Paste a selection from the Clipboard
Ctrl + B	Make selected text bold
Ctrl + I	Italicize selected text
Ctrl + U	Underline selected text
Ctrl + =	Make selected text subscript
Ctrl + Shift + =	Make selected text superscript
Ctrl + L	Align text left
Ctrl + E	Align text center
Ctrl + R	Align text right
Ctrl + J	Justify text
Ctrl + 1	Set single line spacing
Ctrl + 2	Set double line spacing
Ctrl + 5	Set line spacing to 1.5
Ctrl + Shift + >	Increase the font size
Ctrl + Shift + <	Decrease the font size
Ctrl + Shift + A	Change characters to all capitals
Ctrl + Shift + L	Change the bullet style
Ctrl + D	Insert a Microsoft Paint drawing
Ctrl + F	Find text in a document
F3	Find the next instance of the text in the Find dialog box
Ctrl + H	Replace text in a document
Ctrl + Left Arrow	Move the cursor one word to the left
Ctrl + Right Arrow	Move the cursor one word to the right
Ctrl + Up Arrow	Move the cursor to the line above
Ctrl + Down Arrow	Move the cursor to the line below
Ctrl + Home	Move to the beginning of the document
Ctrl + End	Move to the end of the document
Ctrl + Page Up	Move up one page
Ctrl + Page Down	Move down one page
Ctrl + Delete	Delete the next word
F10	Display keytips
Shift + F10	Show the current shortcut menu
F1	Open WordPad Help

Calculator keyboard shortcuts

The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with Calculator.

Press this key	To do this
Alt + 1	Switch to Standard mode
Alt + 2	Switch to Scientific mode
Alt + 3	Switch to Programmer mode
Alt + 4	Switch to Statistics mode
Ctrl + E	Open date calculations
Ctrl + H	Turn calculation history on or off
Ctrl + U	Open unit conversion
Alt + C	Calculate or solve date calculations and worksheets
F1	Open Calculator Help
Ctrl + Q	Press the M- button
Ctrl + P	Press the M+ button
Ctrl + M	Press the MS button
Ctrl + R	Press the MR button
Ctrl + L	Press the MC button
%	Press the % button
F9	Press the +/– button
/	Press the / button
*	Press the * button
+	Press the + button
-	Press the – button
R	Press the 1/× button
@	Press the square root button
0–9	Press the number buttons (0–9)
=	Press the = button
.	Press the . (decimal point) button
Backspace	Press the backspace button
Esc	Press the C button
Del	Press the CE button
Ctrl + Shift + D	Clear the calculation history
F2	Edit the calculation history
Up Arrow key	Navigate up in the calculation history
Down Arrow key	Navigate down in the calculation history
Esc	Cancel editing the calculation history
Enter	Recalculate the calculation history after editing
F3	Select Degrees in Scientific mode
F4	Select Radians in Scientific mode
F5	Select Grads in Scientific mode
I	Press the Inv button in Scientific mode
D	Press the Mod button in Scientific mode
Ctrl + S	Press the sinh button in Scientific mode
Ctrl + O	Press the cosh button in Scientific mode
Ctrl + T	Press the tanh button in Scientific mode
(	Press the ( button in Scientific mode
)	Press the ) button in Scientific mode
N	Press the ln button in Scientific mode
;	Press the Int button in Scientific mode
S	Press the sin button in Scientific mode
O	Press the cos button in Scientific mode
T	Press the tan button in Scientific mode
M	Press the dms button in Scientific mode
P	Press the pi button in Scientific mode
V	Press the F-E button in Scientific mode
X	Press the Exp button in Scientific mode
Q	Press the x^2 button in Scientific mode
Y	Press the x^y button in Scientific mode
#	Press the x^3 button in Scientific mode
L	Press the log button in Scientific mode
!	Press the n! button in Scientific mode
Ctrl + Y	Press the y√x button in Scientific mode
Ctrl + B	Press the 3√x button in Scientific mode
Ctrl + G	Press the 10x button in Scientific mode
F5	Select Hex in Programmer mode
F6	Select Dec in Programmer mode
F7	Select Oct in Programmer mode
F8	Select Bin in Programmer mode
F12	Select Qword in Programmer mode
F2	Select Dword in Programmer mode
F3	Select Word in Programmer mode
F4	Select Byte in Programmer mode
K	Press the RoR button in Programmer mode
J	Press the RoL button in Programmer mode
<	Press the Lsh button in Programmer mode
>	Press the Rsh button in Programmer mode
%	Press the Mod button in Programmer mode
(	Press the ( button in Programmer mode
)	Press the ) button in Programmer mode
\|	Press the Or button in Programmer mode
^	Press the Xor button in Programmer mode
~	Press the Not button in Programmer mode
&	Press the And button in Programmer mode
A–F	Press the A–F buttons in Programmer mode
Spacebar	Toggles the bit value in Programmer mode
A	Press the Average button in Statistics mode
Ctrl + A	Press the Average Sq button in Statistics mode
S	Press the Sum button in Statistics mode
Ctrl+S	Press the Sum Sq button in Statistics mode
T	Press the S.D. button in Statistics mode
Ctrl+T	Press the Inv S.D. button in Statistics mode
D	Press the CAD button in Statistics mode

Windows Journal keyboard shortcuts

The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with Windows Journal.

Press this key	To do this
Ctrl + N	Start a new note
Ctrl + O	Open a recently used note
Ctrl + S	Save changes to a note
Ctrl + Shift + V	Move a note to a specific folder
Ctrl + P	Print a note
Alt + F4	Close a note and its Journal window
Ctrl + Z	Undo a change
Ctrl + Y	Redo a change
Ctrl + A	Select all items on a page
Ctrl + X	Cut a selection
Ctrl + C	Copy a selection to the Clipboard
Ctrl + V	Paste a selection from the Clipboard
Esc	Cancel a selection
Delete	Delete a selection
Ctrl + F	Start a basic find
Ctrl + G	Go to a page
F5	Refresh find results
F5	Refresh the note list
F6	Toggle between a note list and a note
Ctrl + Shift + C	Display a shortcut menu for column headings in a note list
F11	View a note in full-screen mode
F1	Open Journal Help

Windows Help viewer keyboard shortcuts

The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with the Help viewer.

Press this key	To do this
Alt + C	Display the Table of Contents
Alt + N	Display the Connection Settings menu
F10	Display the Options menu
Alt + Left Arrow	Move back to the previously viewed topic
Alt + Right Arrow	Move forward to the next (previously viewed) topic
Alt + A	Display the customer support page
Alt + Home	Display the Help and Support home page
Home	Move to the beginning of a topic
End	Move to the end of a topic
Ctrl + F	Search the current topic
Ctrl + P	Print a topic
F3	Move the cursor to the search box

Essential Work From Home Guide For A Small Business

2020-03-24T11:07:00-07:00

Remote working is the new essential in the age of Social Distancing. As a small business, figuring out how to get your employees set up for remote working may seem like a daunting task, but there are many resources available to help the transition or set up.

In this article, we will go through a checklist of tasks we actually prepare to make sure all of our employees can work safely and productive at home and away from the office. There is no one size fits all solution for all companies and employees, but these are the steps that we think would work best for most small and medium businesses to get started

1. Hardware

Hardware is referring to things like laptops, PC’s, and other technical office equipment.

The two main options for hardware are: company owned equipment or personal owned equipment.

For My Choice Software, we prefer to have employees “check out” company owned hardware because they can be monitored, and this keeps their work environment separate from their personal. This is also the safer option as it is less likely to get viruses with no personal email or other accounts involved.

Be sure to have a “check out” process for equipment to keep track of where and who has the hardware. We also have a spreadsheet with all the series numbers of the equipment and our employees' signature. We want to be clear and specific because if there are issues after we get a certain item back, we will know exactly who was using it.

2. VPN Services

Security is high priority when it comes to company data and information.

VPN stands for "Virtual Private Network", and VPN services are a layer of security for public and private networks so individuals and organizations can send and receive data over the internet without “internet spies”.

Make sure to have antivirus software installed and running on the hardware prior to using a VPN because if it’s already compromised, the VPN won’t help.

We currently use VyprVPN (https://www.vyprvpn.com), but if you don't know which VPN to use, you can choose from a list of most popular VPNs on TechRadar: https://www.techradar.com/vpn/best-vpn

3. Time Clock

Making sure all employees are clocking in and out on time is crucial for a work day. There are cloud-based time clocks for your virtual employees so you don’t have to worry about the old school way of writing it all down. You can also ensure that employees are clocking in from their homes by only allowing them to clock in from a specific IP address.

We currently use iSolved (https://www.isolvedhcm.com/) for time clocking and other HR-related tasks as well.

4. Communication Tools

In-person is usually much easier for a team to get ideas across. When you have multiple employees working remotely, that personal communication is much harder. Having the right communication software is key.

At My Choice Software, we currently use a combination of various communication tools:

- Slack (https://slack.com/)

- Google Hangouts Meet from the Google Suite (https://gsuite.google.com/products/meet/)

- Microsoft Teams in Office 365

Another good routine would be to set up frequent phone meetings so you’re talking to one another and not just through email or messages. If you can incorporate video conferencing, that would be a bonus.

5. Enterprise Solutions

Getting everyone on the same page when it comes to projects is very important. A cloud-based application can connect everyone to the same project so you don't have to worry about anyone missing information or having several versions of the same idea. Applications like G Suite and Office 365 keep everyone connected in real time and allow you to have the freedom and flexibility to have employees reach their data from anywhere in the world.

You can compare and choose the best Office 365 for your needs here: https://www.mychoicesoftware.com/pages/office-365-small-medium-comparison)

We hope this list will help you as much as it helps us. See you on the Clouds!

Plug in product key with SLMGR and SLUI

2020-01-24T18:26:00-08:00

Mounting ISO on Win 7 or earlier

2020-01-24T18:20:00-08:00

DISM to convert from Evaluation to Full Version

2020-01-24T18:19:00-08:00

Upgrade Windows 10 Home to Pro Using Upgrade Key and SLMGR SLUI

2020-01-24T17:36:00-08:00

Español - Cómo extraer los archivos ZIP

2020-01-23T15:31:00-08:00

[Paso 1
Lanzamiento (7)zip desde el menú de inicio (Windows 7) o iniciar la pantalla (windows 8).]

Paso 2
Busque el archivo de imagen (.img / .iso).
(Tendra que Navegue a la carpeta de descarga
(normalmente C:\Users\[nombre]\Downloads))

Paso 3
Haga clic derecho sobre el archivo de imagen y seleccione (7)de cremallera/Zip > 'se extrae [al/todo...] / Extract [to/all...]' (como se muestra a continuación).

Paso 4
Abra la carpeta que la imagen se extrajo a.

Paso 5
Desplazarse hacia abajo / Encontrar y Correr 'Setup.exe' haciendo doble clic en él.

Enhorabuena, ha extraído correctamente el archivo de imagen y comenzaron la instalación !

Español - Activación del Software por Teléfono

2020-01-23T15:30:00-08:00

Si tiene dificultades para la activación de su software en línea,
siga los pasos siguientes para
Activar el producto de software del teléfono...

Paso 1
Iniciar el programa de Office para abrir el asistente de activación. Paso 2
Seleccionar: 'Deseo activar el software por teléfono'.

Paso 3
Seleccione su condado/región en el menú desplegable (es decir Estados Unidos).
(Esto le pedirá con una (llamada gratuita número de teléfono) para llamar.)

Paso 4
Llamar al numero de informacion.

Paso 5
En la llamada telefónica , se le pedirá que
Introducir el código de identificación de la instalación
proporcionada por/en el asistente de instalación (nota: el paso 2 del asistente).

Paso 6
Se le dará/ha proporcionado conjuntos de números.
Introduzca conjuntos de números en los cuadros de texto.

Paso 7
Después de haber introducido los conjuntos de números (proporcionado por la activación telefónica) en las cajas (texto),
Hit ' Siguiente' y luego en 'Finalizar'.

[Enhorabuena, ha activado su producto por teléfono !]

(here is a link that may provide further solutions...
https://community.spiceworks.com/how_to/70078-phone-activate-a-microsoft-product-by-using-microsoft-product-activation-center )

Español - Guía de instalación de Microsoft Office

2020-01-23T15:26:00-08:00

Paso a paso las instrucciones sobre cómo completar la instalación de los siguientes productos:

Microsoft Office 365 (All versions)
Microsoft Office 2013/2016 Home & Student, Home & Business, or Professional

Paso 1
Proceder a su correo electrónico.
Abra el mensaje titulado 'MyChoice licencia de software'.
Haga clic en el enlace proporcionado.

Paso 2
Recuperar la clave de producto de su correo electrónico.
Introduzca la clave del producto en los espacios en blanco provistos.

Paso 3
Se le pedirá que inicie sesión a un Microsoft Live ID / Cuenta.
Si usted tiene una, inicia sesión.
Si no es así, continúe con el enlace 'Sign up now'/(registrarse ahora). (Véase más abajo en rojo en el círculo).

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Paso 4
Usted será llevado a una página principal de su cuenta.
Haga clic en el enlace para iniciar el proceso de descarga.

Paso 5
???Haga clic en Guardar y el archivo(/Save) empezará a descargarse???.
(Dependiendo de la configuración del equipo, el archivo puede ejecutarse automáticamente.
Si no es así, vaya a la carpeta de descarga para ejecutar el instalador.)

Step 6
Si aparece un cuadro de color naranja pop-up...
...Que haya comenzado la instalación del software de oficina.
Sigue los pasos.
Se le pedirá que introduzca su Microsoft Live ID / Cuenta
(Que se creó en el paso 3 / consulte el paso 3).

Una vez finalizado este proceso, usted estará listo. Felicidades por la compra de Microsoft Office!

Microsoft Office 365 / 2013 / 2016 Installation Guide

2020-01-23T15:07:00-08:00

Step by step instructions on how to complete the installation for the following products:

Microsoft Office 365 (All versions)
Microsoft Office 2013/2016 Home & Student, Home & Business, or Professional

Step 1
Proceed to your email.
Open the message titled 'My Choice Software License'.
Click on the link provided.

Step 2
Retrieve Product key from your email.
Enter the Product key into blank spaces provided.

Step 3
You will be prompted to login to a Microsoft Live ID/ Account.
If you have one, sign in.
If not, proceed to the link 'Sign up now'. (See below in circled red)

Step 4
You will be brought to a main account page.
Click the link to begin the download process.

Step 5
Click save and the file will begin downloading.
(Depending on your computer's settings, the file may run automatically.
If not, navigate to your download folder to run the Installer.)

Step 6
If you see an orange box pop up...
...you have begun the install of your office software.
Follow the steps.
You will be prompted to enter your Microsoft Live ID/Account
(that was created in step 3 / refer to step 3).

Once you complete this process, you will be all set. Congratulations on your purchase of Microsoft Office!

Install Windows via Bootable Media

2020-01-23T12:37:00-08:00

Windows Installation Boot Media... Click Here

Change BIOS to boot from USB or CD/DVD... Click Here

1. Insert the USB or CD/DVD Windows Installation Setup boot media.

2. Power on the computer to start the Windows Installation Setup process.

3. Watch for a message about pressing a key to boot from the device.
Press a key to force the computer to start from the Windows Installation Setup boot media.
(When the computer starts, press a key, if you are asked if you would like to start from the Windows Installation Setup boot media by pressing any key.)

4. Select your Regional Settings (preferred language, keyboard type, and time/currency format).

5. Click the 'Install' now button.

6. Enter Your Windows Product Key, then click Next.
(Traditionally, your Windows product key can be found on your online order info, in the confirmation email for your purchase, or on the DVD packaging.)

7. Accept the License Terms. Read over the Microsoft Software License Terms,
check I accept the license terms, and click Next.

8. Click Upgrade vs. Custom?

9. (Skip this step if you chose Upgrade and have only one partition)
Decide which hard drive and partition you want to install Windows on
OR
Delete All Partitions, so Windows Install will take over install the Windows OS onto the hard drive you select.
Warning!!! Deleting partitions will delete/destroy all data(software, applications and files!) on the partitions that you delete
...which may result in destroying valuable data! ! !

10. After installation has completed, remove the Windows Install Media and click Finish/Restart.
(When you restart your computer, it should run your new Windows Operating System!)

Windows 10 Pro pack upgrade

2020-01-23T12:26:00-08:00

Upgrading from Windows 10 Home to Professional?

1. Disconnect from the Internet, then go to Start Screen and click Settings.

2. Click on Update and Security. Click on Activation.

3. Click on Change product key. Enter this upgrade key: VK7JG-NPHTM-C97JM-9MPGT-3V66T

4. Click next, and then follow the steps. (This key will not be used to activate your Windows Operating System, rather get you to Windows 10 Professional.)

5. Once your computer upgrades to Windows 10 Professional, open the Start Screen and select Settings.

6. Click on Update and Security. Click on Activation.

7. Reconnect to the Internet. Enter your License Key Code and the upgrade will be complete!

Windows 8 Pro pack upgrade

2020-01-23T12:25:00-08:00

Upgrading from Windows 8.1 Home to Professional?

1. Go to start screen, then just start typing Add Features to Windows 8.1, click Settings

2. Click Add Features to Windows 8.1, then click I already have a product key.

3. Enter this upgrade key: 449PX-G44P2-P7YNC-PB7F9-2YQG7. Click next, and then follow the steps. (This key will not be used to activate your Windows Operating System, rather get you to Windows 8.1 Professional.)

4. Once your computer upgrades to Windows 8.1 Professional, open up your start menu (with all the tiles) and type direct onto that screen 'This PC'.

5. You will see a search bar open up from the right. Right click on 'This PC' and select 'Properties'.

6. On the bottom right you will see 'Activate Windows'.
Enter the License Key Code provided for your product and the upgrade will be complete!

Windows 7 Installation via Bootable Media

2020-01-23T12:23:00-08:00

1. Windows Installation Boot Media

ISO -> USB / CD/DVD

1. Click on either the 32-bit or 64-bit download link.
(If you are unsure, select the 64-bit link.)

32-Bit
https://mega.nz/#!b1NiDRhC!ot6xhEVTOtyyMjx13WvXm5WOfD7OgAUPXhQXHvdpdGM
64-Bit
https://mega.nz/#!v4EGGJjC!LoQRntAB0_095MJfBZPWHmO1Ri0TZh8ZbDpH8VKLaqo

2. Click on 'Download through your browser' and take note where the Windows.iso setup file was saved.

3. Use the Windows 7 Media Tool...

Windows 7 usb / cd/dvd boot media tool
Windows 7 USB / CD/DVD Media Tool
[OR https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows7 ]

3a. Install the Windows USB/DVD Media Tool (that you just downloaded).

4. Open/Run up the Media Creation Tool (that you just installed) [and click run].

5. Browse to the location of the ['windows.iso'] file / where the downloaded file was saved (see step 2 above).

3. Select 'DVD' OR 'USB'...
If you selected ISO: Insert a disc when the application asks.
If you selected USB: Have the USB inserted in the computer.
(Warning! This will destroy/wipe all data existing on the USB device!)

2. Change BIOS to Boot from USB / CD/DVD [boot media]

USB / CD/DVD BIOS Boot Order (To enforce boot from preferred media)

You may need to change your system BIOS to start from the boot media (that you created).

1. Start your computer to Enter your computer's BIOS.
(When the BIOS screen appears or you are prompted to do so, press Del, Esc, F2, F10, or F9 (depending on your computer’s motherboard) to enter the system BIOS. The key to enter the BIOS is usually shown on the screen.)

2. Find your BIOS's Boot Options menu.

3. Select the appropriate Boot Media Device (CD/DVD-ROM drive OR USB) as the first boot device of your computer.

4. Save the changes of the settings.

5. Shut off your computer.

6. Insert the CD/DVD / USB boot media.

7. Start your computer to boot from the CD/DVD/USB.

3. Windows 7 Installation via Bootable Media

1. Insert the USB or CD/DVD Windows Installation Setup boot media.

2. Power on the computer to start the Windows Installation Setup process.

4. Once Windows Setup loads, you should be presented with a Windows Setup window...
Choose your Windows Setup options / Select your Regional Settings
(preferred language, keyboard type, and time/currency format), then click Next.

5. Click the 'Install' Now button.

6. Accept the License Terms. Read over the Microsoft Software License Terms,
check 'I accept the license terms', and click Next.

7. Select the Custom installation.

8. Decide which hard drive and partition you want to install Windows on
OR
Delete All Partitions, so Windows Install will take over install the Windows OS onto the hard drive you select.
Warning!!! Deleting partitions will delete/destroy all data(software, applications and files!) on the partitions that you delete
...which may result in destroying valuable data! ! !

9. Install Windows on your preferred hard drive / partition. , select it and click Next. Windows will begin installing.

10. After installation has completed, remove the Windows Install Media and click Finish. (When you restart your computer, it should run your new Windows Operating System.)

Setup/Install Windows 8/8.1 via bootable media

2020-01-23T12:23:00-08:00

1. Windows Installation Boot Media

ISO -> USB / CD/DVD

Windows 8 usb/dvd download tool
http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=510815

1. Open up the Media Creation Tool (that you just downloaded) [and click run].

2. Select your Language, Edition: 'Windows ?X?', and either 32 or 64-bit(, if you are unsure try 64-bit,) and click next.

3. Select 'ISO' File OR 'USB' Flash Drive.
If you selected ISO: Wait for the file to download and insert a disc when the application asks.
If you selected USB: Wait for the file to download and have the USB inserted in the computer.
(Warning! This will destroy/wipe all data existing on the USB device!)

4. Insert your disc/cd/dvd OR USB flash drive into the machine that is requiring the Windows installation and follow the prompt.

2. Change BIOS to Boot from USB / CD/DVD [boot media]

USB / CD/DVD BIOS Boot Order (To enforce boot from preferred media)

You may need to change your system BIOS to start from the boot media (that you created).

2. Find your BIOS's Boot Options menu.

3. Select the appropriate Boot Media Device (CD/DVD-ROM drive OR USB) as the first boot device of your computer.

4. Save the changes of the settings.

5. Shut off your computer.

6. Insert the CD/DVD / USB boot media.

7. Start your computer to boot from the CD/DVD/USB.

3. Setup/Install Windows 8/8.1 via bootable media

1. Insert the USB or CD/DVD Windows Installation Setup boot media.

2. Power on the computer to start the Windows Installation Setup process.

5. Click the 'Install' Now button.

7. Accept the License Terms. Read over the Microsoft Software License Terms,
check 'I accept the license terms', and click Next.

8. Select the Custom installation.

9. Decide which hard drive and partition you want to install Windows on
OR
Delete All Partitions, so Windows Install will take over install the Windows OS onto the hard drive you select.
Warning!!! Deleting partitions will delete/destroy all data(software, applications and files!) on the partitions that you delete
...which may result in destroying valuable data! ! !

10. Install Windows on your preferred hard drive / partition.
Select the preferred hard drive/partition and click Next.
Windows should begin installing.

11. After installation has completed, remove the Windows Install Media and click Finish/Restart.
(When you restart your computer, it should run your new Windows Operating System!)

Setup/Install Windows 10 via bootable media

2020-01-23T12:22:00-08:00

1. Windows Installation Boot Media

ISO -> USB / CD/DVD

[Windows 10 usb / cd/dvd download tool]
http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=691209

1. Open up the Media Creation Tool you just downloaded and click run.

2. Click Accept the license terms.

3. Select 'Create installation media for another PC' and click next.

4. Either 'Use the recommended options for this PC'
OR Select your Language, Edition: 'Windows ?X?', and either 32 or 64-bit(, if you are unsure try 64-bit,)
and click next.

5. Select 'ISO' File OR 'USB' Flash Drive.
If you selected ISO: Wait for the file to download and insert a disc when the application asks.
If you selected USB: Wait for the file to download and have the USB inserted in the computer.
(Warning! This will destroy/wipe all data existing on the USB device!)

2. Change BIOS to Boot from USB / CD/DVD [boot media]

USB/CD/DVD BIOS Boot Order (To enforce boot from preferred media)

You may need to change your system BIOS to start from the boot media [you created].

2. Find your BIOS's Boot Options menu.

3. Select the appropriate Boot Media Device (CD/DVD-ROM drive OR USB) as the first boot device of your computer.

4. Save the changes of the settings.

5. Shut off your computer.

6. Insert the CD/DVD / USB boot media.

7. Start your computer to boot from the CD/DVD/USB.

3. Windows 10 Installation via Bootable Media

1. Insert the USB or CD/DVD Windows Installation Setup boot media.

2. Power on the computer to start the Windows Installation Setup process.

5. Click the 'Install' Now button.

7. Accept the License Terms. Read over the Microsoft Software License Terms,
check 'I accept the license terms', and click Next.

8. Select the Custom installation.

10. Install Windows on your preferred hard drive / partition.
Select the preferred hard drive/partition and click Next.
Windows should begin installing.

11. Before you can start using Windows, there are some personalization, location, browser, protection, connectivity and error reporting settings that you can adjust.
You can zip through this by clicking the Express settings (which basically turn everything on),
OR
you can click ‘Customize settings’ to customize them.

12. Specify who's the owner of the device.
(You can choose to sign in with your company ID, which will give you access to your company's resources.)

13. Microsoft really wants you to sign in to Windows 10 with your Microsoft account. If you use Microsoft services like Office, Outlook.com, OneDrive, Skype, or Xbox, it makes sense to sign in with your Microsoft account as it ties them all up and makes your Windows experience more personal.

14. After installation has completed, remove the Windows Install Media and click Finish/Restart.
(When you restart your computer, it should run your new Windows Operating System!)

Windows 7 anytime upgrades (upgrade within 7)

2020-01-23T12:20:00-08:00

To complete the upgrade:

Your current version of Windows 7 must be fully updated including all service packs.
(Control Panel -> Windows Update -> Install Updates, must be completed until all updates are installed.)

1. Click the Windows Start Button
In the search box, type Windows Anytime Upgrade

2. Click Windows Anytime Upgrade, then click Enter an Upgrade Key

3. Enter your purchased Upgrade Key. Click 'Next'.

4. Follow the instructions to complete the upgrade.
(Depending on your initial Win 7 installation, you may or may not have to 'Change product key' as well to the key purchased, on your System -> Properties screen in order to activate the new edition.)

How to Create Windows Installation Boot Media

2020-01-15T18:07:00-08:00

ISO -> USB / CD/DVD BIOS

[Windows 7 usb/dvd download tool]
Windows 7 USB Download Tool

Windows 8 usb/dvd download tool
http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=510815

[Windows 10 usb / cd/dvd download tool]
http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=691209

1. Open up the Media Creation Tool you just downloaded and click run.

2. Select your Language, Edition: 'Windows ?X?', and either 32 or 64-bit(, if you are unsure try 64-bit,) and click next.

[4. Insert your disc/cd/dvd OR USB flash drive into the machine that is requiring the Windows installation and follow the prompt.]

Change BIOS to boot from USB or CD/DVD

2020-01-15T12:38:00-08:00

ISO -> USB/CD/DVD BIOS Boot Order (To enforce boot from preferred media)

1. Start your computer to Enter your computer's BIOS.
(When the BIOS screen appears or you are prompted to do so, press Del, Esc, F2, F10, or F9 (depending on your computer’s motherboard) to enter the system BIOS. The key to enter the BIOS is usually shown on the screen.)

2. Find your BIOS's Boot Options menu.

3. Select the appropriate Boot Media Device (CD/DVD-ROM drive OR USB) as the first boot device of your computer.

4. Save the changes of the settings.

5. Shut off your computer.

6. Insert the CD/DVD/USB boot media.

7. Start your computer to boot from the CD/DVD/USB.

Difficulties Activating Software Online/Telephone Activation

2020-01-15T12:34:00-08:00

If you experience difficulties Activating your Software Online,
follow the steps below to activate your Software product by Telephone.

Step 1
Start Office program to open the activation wizard.

Step 2
Select: 'I want to activate the software by telephone'.

Step 3
Select your county/region from the dropdown (ie. United States) and call the number provided.

Note: If you see a notice that telephone activation is no longer supported for your product, it can still be accomplished by calling the following:
Office 2010: (888) 652-2342
Office 2007: (866) 432-3012

Step 4
In the phone call, You will be prompted to
Enter the Installation ID code
provided by/in the installation wizard (note: Step 2 in the wizard).

Step 5
You will be given/provided sets of numbers.
Enter number sets into the text boxes.

Step 6
After you have entered the number sets (provided by telephone activation) into the (text) boxes,
Hit 'Next' and then 'Finish'.

[Congratulations, you've successfully activated your product by telephone !]

(here is a link that may provide further solutions...
https://community.spiceworks.com/how_to/70078-phone-activate-a-microsoft-product-by-using-microsoft-product-activation-center )

How to extract and run Setup.exe from an image file with Zip

2020-01-15T12:26:00-08:00

Step 1
Locate the Image file (.img / .iso).
(You may need to Navigate to your Download folder
(usually C:\Users\[name]\Downloads))

Step 2
Right click on the image file and select (7)zip > 'Extract [to/all]' (as shown below).

Step 3
Open the folder that the image was extracted to. Step 4
Scroll down/Find and Run 'Setup.exe' by double clicking it.

Congratulations, you've successfully extracted the image file and started the install !

How to Download Open License Products

2020-01-15T12:25:00-08:00

Go to:
https://www.microsoft.com/Licensing/servicecenter/default.aspx
Click Sign in
Sign in with a existing Microsoft Account
OR
Create an Account (use the same email address used to place an order with MyChoice Software)
and then sign in.
Enter your information, as well as, your agreement and authorization # (found in the attachment emailed to you)
Click on 'Downloads and Keys' Tab
Find and click on product you wish to install
Click on 'Key' to obtain the product activation key
Click on 'Download'
Select Download Method: Browser, Language, and 32/64 bit option

Please allow up to 6 hours for the download links to appear as the authorization number must link to your newly created account.

Mega Download Problems

2020-01-15T12:22:00-08:00

If your 'Mega download' fails...

Download keeps failing (halfway through) ( Error: Out of Memory / Write error)

If you selected the 'download through your browser' option...
and you see the status bar run across the screen, but fails/crashes,
then it is likely you have an out of date/ incompatible internet browser.
Resolution - Use Google Chrome browser to complete the download.
You can download this browser here: https://www.google.com/chrome/browser

Download completes, but cant find file...

Press Ctrl + J on your keyboard to show your downloads folder. You should see the downloads Windows appear.
The file you have just downloaded will show at the top of the list.
Double click on the file to start the install process.

Office is taking long to install

2020-01-14T15:02:00-08:00

If Office is taking too long to install, you may get this error message:

“Sorry it looks like you’re on a slow connection”

Even if you don’t get this message, you may want to try to cancel the installation and try some of these solutions.

Does Office hang or freeze at 90%?

If your Office installation hangs or freezes at around 90% complete, this could be because the Windows Installer is busy.

Try to cancel the installation with Task Manager and try to install again.

Restart your computer and check if Office installed

The Office installation may have completed. You can check to see after you restart your computer.

Use a wired connection

If Office did not install, try to reinstall after switching to a wired connection. This can help speed up the installation because a wired connection is usually faster than a wireless one

If you're on a slow internet connection, install Office using the offline installer

The Office offline installer may help bypass potential proxy, firewall, antivirus, or Internet connection issues that might occur during an Office installation.

Temporarily turn off antivirus software

After installation is complete, don’t forget to turn your antivirus software back on.

Run online repair from Control Panel

Open Control Panel, and select Programs and Features.
In the Uninstall or change a program window, from the list find and select the Office product you're trying to install.
Tap or click Change, select Online Repair.

Remove and reinstall Office

Completely remove Office using the easy fix tool and then try reinstalling it.

Choose between the 64-bit or 32-bit version of Office

2020-01-14T15:00:00-08:00

Based on the version of Office you have, you can see below which one automatically installs 32-bit or 64-bit; and how to change it to either one to accommodate your system.

Office Versions:

Newer Versions (Office 2019)

The 64-bit version of Office is automatically installed unless you explicitly select the 32-bit version before beginning the installation process.

If you install the 64-bit version, but want the 32-bit version instead, you must first uninstall the 64-bit version before installing the 32-bit version. The same is true if you installed the 32-bit version, but want to install the 64-bit version.

Computers running 64-bit versions of Windows usually have more resources, such as processing power and memory, than their 32-bit predecessors. Also, 64-bit applications can access more memory than 32-bit applications.

64-bit is the right choice when:

You’re working with large data sets.
You’re working with extremely large pictures, videos, or animations in PowerPoint.
You’re working with files over 2 GB in Project.
You’re developing in-house Office solutions.
You’re working with the Large Number data type in Access.

32-bit is the right choice when:

You have 32-bit COM Add-ins with no 64-bit alternative.
You use 32-bit controls with no 64-bit alternative.
Your VBA code uses Declare statements.
You have 32-bit MAPI applications for Outlook.
You’re activating a 32-bit OLE server or object.
You're using SharePoint Server 2010 and you need the Edit in Datasheet view.
You need 32-bit Microsoft Access .mde, .ade, and .accde database files.
You require Legacy Equation Editor or WLL (Word Add-in libraries) files in Word.
You have an old embedded media file in your PowerPoint presentation.

Office 2016

The 32-bit version of Office is automatically installed unless you explicitly select the 64-bit version before beginning the installation process.

If you already installed the 32-bit version, but want to install the 64-bit version instead (or vice versa), you must uninstall the version you don't want before installing the version you do want.

64-bit is the right choice when:

You’re working with large data sets.
You’re working with extremely large pictures, videos, or animations in PowerPoint.
You’re working with files over 2 GB in Project.
You’re developing in-house Office solutions.
You’re working with the Large Number data type in Access.

32-bit is the right choice when:

You have 32-bit COM Add-ins with no 64-bit alternative.
You use 32-bit controls with no 64-bit alternative.
Your VBA code uses Declare statements.
You have 32-bit MAPI applications for Outlook.
You’re activating a 32-bit OLE server or object.
You're using SharePoint Server 2010 and you need the Edit in Datasheet view.
You need 32-bit Microsoft Access .mde, .ade, and .accde database files.
You require Legacy Equation Editor or WLL (Word Add-in libraries) files in Word.
You have an old embedded media file in your PowerPoint presentation.

Office 2013

It is recommended to install the 32-bit version of Office for most users with Office 2013 because it’s more compatible with most other applications, especially 3rd-party add-ins. However, consider the 64-bit version, especially if you're working with large blocks of information or graphics.

If you already installed the 32-bit version, but want to install the 64-bit version instead (or vice versa) you'll need to uninstall the version you don't want before going ahead with installing the version you do want.

The 64-bit version of Office may perform better in some cases, but there are limitations.

32-bit operating system with an x86 (32-bit) processor can only install 32-bit Office.

Solutions that use ActiveX controls library. ComCtl controls won’t work. However, there are ways for developers to provide a 64-bit solution.

32-bit third party ActiveX controls and add-ins won’t work. The vendor would need to create 64-bit versions of these controls.

Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) that contain Declare statements won’t work.

Compiled Access databases, such as .MDE, .ADE, and .ACCDE files won’t work unless they’re specifically written for the 64-bit version of Office.

You have 32-bit MAPI applications for Outlook.

In SharePoint 2010 or earlier, the datasheet view won’t be available because this view uses an ActiveX control.

Microsoft Office Excel Viewer, Access database engine of Access 2013, and Compatibility Pack for the 2007 Office system will block a 64-bit Office 2013 installation.

The legacy Equation Editor in Word is not supported on 64-bit Office 2016, but the equation builder feature in Word 2013 is supported on all platforms. Also, Word Add-in Libraries (WLL) are not supported in 64-bit Office 2013.

If you have specific add-ins that you use in the 32-bit version of Office, they might not work in 64-bit Office, and vice versa.

Office 2010

The 32-bit version is Office is automatically installed. However, the version that’s right for you depends on how you plan to use Office. If you have specific add-ins that you use in the 32-bit version of Office, they might not work in 64-bit Office and vice versa.

64-bit is the right choice when:

You’re working with large data sets.
You’re working with extremely large pictures, videos, or animations in PowerPoint.
You’re working with files over 2 GB in Project.
You’re developing in-house Office solutions.
Your organization requires that Hardware Data Execution Prevention (DEP) be enforced for Office applications.

32-bit is the right choice when:

Your organization needs to continue to use extensions to Office, such as ActiveX controls, third-party add-ins, in-house solutions built on previous versions of Office, or 32-bit versions of software that interface directly with Office.
You use 32-bit controls with no 64-bit alternative.
Your VBA code uses Declare statements.
In SharePoint Server 2010 or earlier, the datasheet view won't be available.
Compiled Access databases, like .MDE and .ACCDE files, won’t work unless they are specifically written for the 64-bit version of Office.
You need Legacy Equation Editor or WLL (Word Add-in Libraries) file in Word.
There is no codec (software used to compress or decompress a video or audio file) available in 64-bit for three QuickTime media formats.

Where to enter your Office product key

2020-01-14T14:59:00-08:00

If your purchase of an Office product came with a 25 character product key, you can use the steps below based on which product you have to find out where you should enter that key to download and install your Office product.

Example of an Office product key:

XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

Office 365, Office 2019, Office 2016, and Office 2013 (PC and Mac)

To redeem a new purchase of Office

Go to www.office.com/setup
Sign in with your Microsoft account, or create one if you don't have one. Be sure to remember this account so that you can install or reinstall Office later, without a product key.
Enter your Office product key, without hyphens, if prompted. If you don't see the option to enter your product key, it was entered for you automatically.
Follow the prompts to finish the redemption process.

Microsoft HUP

These steps apply only to Office Professional Plus, Visio Professional, or Project Professional.

Start an Office app, like Word, Project, or Visio, depending on your purchase.
In the ‘Sign in to set up Office’ window, select I don't want to sign in or create an account.
Enter your Office product key, without hyphens.

Microsoft Store

These steps apply if you’ve purchased your product through the Microsoft Store.

Go to www.microsoftstore.com and sign in with the Microsoft account that you used to buy Office.
After you sign in, select your name in the upper right-hand corner, and then select Order History.
Locate the Office one-time purchase or individual Office app, and then select Install Office to view your product key (this doesn't actually install Office).
Select Install Office again in the window where the product key appears.
On the ‘Hi. Let's get your Office’ page, follow the prompts to sign in again and associate your product key with your Microsoft account.

Office 365 Business Premium

Go to https://www.office.com/setupkey
Enter your Office product key without hyphens, and then select Next.
Follow the prompts to finish the redemption and setup process.

Office 2010 or Office 2011 for Mac

Go to https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/office
Enter your Office product key without hyphens, and then select Verify.
Follow the prompts to finish the download process.