Portable — Microsoft Word 2013

Do not download a "Microsoft Word 2013 Portable" from unofficial sources. The security and legal risks far outweigh the convenience. If you need a truly portable word processor, use one of the legal, open-source alternatives mentioned above.

If your heart is set on Microsoft Word itself, consider purchasing a standard license for Office 2013 (still available from some resellers) and install it normally. Then, use a tool like PortableApps.com Platform to launch it from a USB – though this will still require installation on each host PC you use.

Remember: If a piece of software seems too convenient and free, you – or your data – are likely the product. microsoft word 2013 portable


Have you tried a portable version of Word? Share your experience in the comments below (but don’t share download links!)

Some websites offer a "Portable" version that is simply the setup.exe file copied to a USB drive. When you click it, it still tries to install to C:\Program Files. This is not portable. It defeats the purpose. Do not download a "Microsoft Word 2013 Portable"

Microsoft's Licensing: You are legally permitted to install your licensed copy of Office 2013 on your own laptop and carry that laptop around. You are not permitted to run it from a USB drive on friend's computers or library terminals.

If portability is a key requirement, consider: Have you tried a portable version of Word

For academic or specific needs, always evaluate the licensing terms and technical feasibility before attempting to use software in a non-standard, portable manner.