Microsoft 365 Help Open and edit Word, Excel or PowerPoint in a browser
Start from your Windows OneDrive and edit the cloud document without using an installed Office editor.
Before you start
- Your file has finished syncing to OneDrive.
- You have edit permission and an internet connection.
Follow these steps
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Find your work OneDrive
Open File Explorer and select your work OneDrive folder. Note the document name and the folder it is in.
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Open the online file list
Click the OneDrive cloud icon near the Windows clock and choose View online. Sign in with your work email if asked.
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Locate the same document
Open its folder in the browser. Select the Word, Excel or PowerPoint file by clicking its name; it normally opens in the matching web editor.
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Choose browser editing if needed
If the file opens as a preview or another app is offered, look for Open > Open in browser or Edit in browser. Wording varies by document type.
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Check that you can edit
Look for Editing near the top. If it says Viewing, choose the editing option if available. If you only have view access, request edit permission from the owner.
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Make your change
Click in the document and type, select a spreadsheet cell, or choose a slide. Keep the browser connected so the editor can save your work.
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Check saving before closing
Wait for the saved status near the document name, such as Saved or Saved to OneDrive. Close the document tab to return to your file list. The synced computer copy will update.
You have finished when…
- Reopening the document shows your changes.
Helpful tips
- Double-clicking a file in File Explorer usually uses the installed app; View online takes you to the browser route.
- Complex features such as Excel macros may need the licensed desktop app. Do not remove unsupported content to make a file open.
- Use Version history if a saved change needs to be recovered. Ask the owner before restoring a shared document that others are editing.
Something looks different?
The web editor is read-only.
Check whether you have Can edit access. The file may also use an unsupported format or feature; ask the owner for an editable supported copy.
The browser says Saving or Offline.
Leave the tab open, reconnect, and wait for confirmation. Do not assume the document has saved.
Microsoft help & further guidance
Menu names can change as Microsoft updates the apps. These official pages include further instructions.