What Microsoft Won’t Tell You About Office & Project 2024 Licensing But Should

Why Licensing Confuses So Many Users

If you’re considering Microsoft Office 2024 or Project 2024, you’re probably asking:
“What’s the real cost? What are the licensing limitations? And why is it all so unclear?”

Microsoft’s licensing system has evolved—but not always in ways that are easy to understand. Between vague terms, hidden costs, and platform restrictions, it’s easy to make the wrong decision and overpay or underutilize your software investment.

This post will break down everything Microsoft won’t tell you upfront about Office and Project 2024 licensing, helping you make smarter decisions and avoid common traps.

What’s New in Microsoft Office & Project 2024 Licensing?

1. Perpetual Licensing Is Still Alive—But Hidden

Contrary to what many believe, Microsoft still offers perpetual licenses for Office 2024 and Project 2024—products you pay for once and own forever. However, Microsoft tends to push cloud-based subscriptions like Microsoft 365.

Tip: If you prefer a one-time payment model, opt for the Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus + Project 2024 Professional combo.

2. Device Limitations You Didn’t Expect

• Office and Project 2024 perpetual licenses are typically restricted to a set number of devices (usually 1 or 3 PCs).

• You cannot transfer the license across platforms (Windows to Mac) or beyond the initial device (in many cases).

• No mobile app access with perpetual versions—only desktop compatibility.

3. Compatibility & Support Limitations

Microsoft Office 2024 and Project 2024 are designed to run best on Windows 11.

• Older OS versions may face issues during install or updates.

• Microsoft only offers mainstream support for a fixed window (usually 5 years), after which security patches may stop.

Real Cost Comparison: Subscription vs. Perpetual License

Important: You won’t find this direct comparison on Microsoft’s product pages. Their marketing heavily favors subscriptions—often overlooking perpetual benefits.

Common Licensing Traps to Avoid

Buying From Unauthorized Sellers

Some online platforms offer deep discounts on Office and Project 2024—but these could be unauthorized or counterfeit keys.

👉 Always verify the license source. Authorized resellers like Tech-Licenses ensure you’re getting genuine activation and support.

Confusing OEM vs. Retail Licenses

• OEM Licenses are tied to the first device they’re activated on. No transfers.

• Retail Licenses offer a bit more flexibility and may allow installation on another PC after deactivation.

Tip: If you’re not building a PC from scratch, retail is the safer bet.

Skipping the Fine Print

Microsoft’s documentation isn’t always user-friendly. Look beyond the product title and check:

• Device limits

• Transferability

• Language availability

• Update support lifecycle

Conclusion: Make Smarter Licensing Choices

Understanding Microsoft’s Office & Project 2024 licensing can feel like navigating a maze, but once you break it down, the decisions become much clearer.

Perpetual licenses still offer great value—if you know where to look and how to buy. And now, you do.

For more such insightful guides and verified software deals, visit tech-licenses.

FAQs

• How many devices can I install Office/Project 2024 on?

Most perpetual licenses allow up to 1 or 3 PC installations. Check the specific product listing here.

• Can I use Office 2024 with Mac?

No. Office 2024 Professional Plus and Project 2024 are Windows-only. For Mac compatibility, you’ll need different versions or Microsoft 365.

• Will I get updates with a perpetual license?

Yes—you get security updates, but no feature upgrades after the initial purchase. To stay current with features, Microsoft 365 is required