Can I still use the desktop version of Publisher?

David Lambert 6 Reputation points
2026-09-10T23:18:58.2633333+00:00

I have a Microsoft 365 subscription and downloaded and installed the desktop versions of the apps on my laptop. Will I still be able to work with Publisher files after the October 1st deadline, or will the app be automatically uninstalled from my device?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Publisher | For home
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  2. Marcin Policht 106.8K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2026-09-10T23:36:28.2466667+00:00

    Unfortunately not - your version of the desktop app is tied directly to your Microsoft 365 subscription and Microsoft controls its availability through your cloud account.

    You'd need a perpetual license to avoid losing access. You can still acquire a license for Office Professional 2021. This specific version includes Publisher and will remain functional on your computer indefinitely, though it will stop receiving security updates after the 2026 cutoff. You should note that Publisher was intentionally excluded from the newer Office 2024 perpetual release, making the 2021 edition the final available version for purchase.

    AFAIK, Microsoft no longer sells Publisher as a standalone product on its primary storefront, you should be able to purchase the Microsoft Office Professional 2021 suite, which is a one-time purchase that includes Publisher alongside the core apps like Word and Excel. You can still find legitimate retail keys from authorized third-party sellers and established tech retailers like CDW or My Choice Software, where prices for the full suite often range between $200 and $400 depending on the specific licensing terms. Some specialized software vendors like Digital License and FastSoftwares still list individual keys for Publisher 2021 specifically, often at a lower price point around $50 to $100, though you should verify their current stock and activation guarantees before buying. Be careful with extremely low-priced "lifetime" deals on unfamiliar sites, as these are often volume licenses not intended for individual resale and may be deactivated by Microsoft later.

    If the above response helps answer your question, remember to "Accept Answer" so that others in the community facing similar issues can easily find the solution. Your contribution is highly appreciated.

    hth

    Marcin

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  3. AI answer

    2026-09-10T23:19:07.3133333+00:00

    If the installation is from a Microsoft 365 subscription, Publisher can be used with its current functionality until October 1, 2026. After that, Microsoft 365 subscribers will no longer be able to access Publisher, and will no longer be able to open or edit Publisher files in Publisher.

    The documented behavior is loss of access through Microsoft 365 after that date. The guidance does not state that the app will be automatically uninstalled from the device.

    To keep access to existing .pub files, Microsoft recommends converting important files before that date, such as to PDF or Word format. A search for .Pub on the PC, OneDrive, or SharePoint can help locate existing Publisher files.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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