Signing in to Microsoft 365 Apps When Activation is Required

How-To: How do I sign in to Microsoft 365 apps when an activation window appears?

This article explains how to sign in to Microsoft 365 apps (such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams) on a Windows or macOS computer using your CSU credentials. Some users may see an activation window before they can use the app. This guide walks through that process.

Applicable to: Fort Collins, Pueblo, Spur, System
Affiliation: Students, Faculty, Staff

Prerequisites

You must have an active CSU Microsoft 365 account.
You must be connected to the internet.
Microsoft 365 apps must be installed on your computer.

Instructions

Open any Microsoft 365 app (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook).
If an activation window appears:
1. Click Sign in or create account. (Do not click I have a product key.)
2. Enter your CSU email address (e.g., firstname.lastname@colostate.edu).
3. Click Next.
4. Enter your CSU NetID password.
5. If prompted, complete Duo two-factor authentication.
6. The app will activate and open normally.
7. A pop-up window may appear asking if you want to automatically sign in to all desktop apps and websites on this device.
8. Click Yes to allow seamless access across Microsoft 365 apps.
If no activation window appears:
1. Click Sign in in the top-right corner of the app window.
2. Enter your CSU email address and follow the same steps as above.
To verify you're signed in:
1. Click your profile icon in the top-right corner.
2. Confirm your CSU email is listed.

Outcome

After completing these steps, your Microsoft 365 apps will be activated and signed in with your CSU credentials, giving you access to cloud storage (OneDrive), collaboration tools, and full app functionality.

Suggested Tags microsoft365,activation,login