Your buying options

Our software offers you almost endless possibilities. You can get creative with photos and movies, have music at your fingertips, make learning fun, or even get help managing your finances. If Microsoft software is right for you, how do you go about buying licences for the products you want?

As a home user, you have three main choices:

  • boxed software with a DVD
  • software that comes pre-installed on a new PC, laptop, smartphone etc
  • as a software download or DVD from Microsoft Store

If you’re a student - or looking to buy software for a student - then check out our education buying guide for great deals.

Sales and support

Our software is available through a network of retailers, both on the high street and online. High street computer shops can be a great option if you like to chat through your buying options in person and experience the software first-hand. Alternatively, you can get it directly from us through Microsoft Store. Or you can compare prices at MSNŽ shopping. Whatever way you choose to buy, make sure you get the genuine article!

We offer no charge support to some boxed software customers through the Microsoft support hotline.

If you buy your software pre-installed on a PC, then you don't sign a contract or have a direct relationship with us. The company that sold you the software should be your first port of call for support.

The risks of counterfeit

Buying counterfeit software can be risky. Illegal software often contains unwanted "extras" such as viruses and malware that could damage your PC. To avoid being ripped off and make sure you're legal, insist on the real thing. Only genuine Windows and Office customers can receive product downloads, updates and special offers. And only genuine customers get full support.

Find out how to tell if software is genuine and more about the value of genuine software. If something looks to good to be true, it probably is.

Buy now

Visit MSN Shopping to compare products and prices or buy direct from Microsoft Store.

If you're a small business, not a home user, please visit this how to buy site. If you’re a charity, find out whether you're entitled to discounted software.