What's the Best Way to Use Microsoft Office on Linux?

December 8, 2025 5 answers
Asked by TechSavvy123
I'm a student who has just switched to Linux, but I still need Microsoft Office for my ICT practical exams since my school uses it on their computers. I really need MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. I'm looking for the best way to use MS Office on Linux or any alternatives that work similarly so I won't have a hard time when using MS Office at school.

Answers

LinuxLover89
You have a few options! You can run MS Office on Linux using a virtual machine with Windows, which is a solid choice. Alternatively, if you prefer native apps, OnlyOffice is a great option but lacks Access. LibreOffice is also a popular choice, and it comes with a Base component that's somewhat like Access, although it might not be as full-featured.
Reply to this answer
VMExpert76
If you use a virtual machine, you can even set it up so that it runs specific apps in a window, giving you the feel of using them natively. It's a neat solution for accessing necessary software while keeping most of your system Linux.
Reply to this answer
OfficeGuru33
WPS Office and SoftMaker Office are both excellent alternatives that maintain high compatibility with MS Office files. They may not have all the features, but they're great for general use.
Reply to this answer
NerdyBirdy45
Running Microsoft Office on Linux isnโ€™t easy since it's not officially supported. You could try using Wine to run an old version, or better yet, set up a Windows VM with something like VirtualBox. That way, you can use all the Office applications like youโ€™re on a Windows machine.
Reply to this answer
VirtualExplorer22
If youโ€™re okay with using online tools, you could opt for Microsoft 365 in a web browser. It's a straightforward way to access Word, Excel, and PowerPoint without needing to install anything. For Access, though, you might need to stick to the Windows version since it doesn't have a reliable web alternative.
Reply to this answer

Add your answer

Answers are reviewed before publication.

Related Discussions