Microsoft 365 (Retiree Access) - Transitioning to Online Applications
Retirees with continuing SIUE Microsoft 365 access can use Word, Excel, and PowerPoint right in a web browser, with nothing to install. The online versions cover most everyday document work and save files to OneDrive automatically. The sections below walk through signing in, finding files, and the few places where the online apps work differently from the desktop versions.
Microsoft 365: The subscription that includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneDrive. The web versions run in any modern browser. The desktop versions are installed on a specific computer and require the desktop license.
Sign In to Microsoft 365 in a Browser
- Open a web browser, such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari.
- Go to https://office365.siue.edu.
- If prompted, sign in with the SIUE email address and password.
- Select the app launcher (the grid icon) in the top-left corner.
- Select the application to open, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or OneDrive.
How the Online Apps Differ from the Desktop Apps
Files Save Automatically to OneDrive
- Documents save to OneDrive cloud storage as edits are made.
- There is no Save button to click. Manual saving is not required.
- Files are accessible from any device with an internet connection and the SIUE sign-in.
Find Saved Files
- Select the app launcher (the grid icon).
- Select OneDrive.
- Select My files to see all saved documents.
- Click a file to open it. The matching app (Word, Excel, or PowerPoint) opens automatically.
Create a New Document
- Select the app launcher (the grid icon).
- Select the application to use, such as Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.
- Select New blank document, or pick a template.
- Begin working. Edits save to OneDrive automatically.
Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Online
Each app can be opened from the app launcher at https://office365.siue.edu, or by going directly to the links below.
Word Online
- Direct link: https://www.microsoft365.com/launch/word.
- Most common formatting features are available in the ribbon.
- Real-time collaboration with other SIUE users is supported.
- Custom macros are not available in the online version.
Excel Online
- Direct link: https://www.microsoft365.com/launch/excel.
- Standard calculations, formatting, and charts are supported.
- Basic pivot tables are supported.
- Power Query and Power Pivot are not available in the online version.
PowerPoint Online
- Direct link: https://www.microsoft365.com/launch/powerpoint.
- Create and edit slides, including animations and transitions.
- Present directly from the browser.
Need Additional Support?
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact the ITS Help Desk:
- Call: (618) 650-5500
- Email: help@siue.edu
- Visit: Lovejoy Library Room 0005 during regular business hours.
This guide aims to provide useful information, but as technology changes, interfaces or steps might vary. Please use the Comment button to let us know if anything differs from your experience. Your feedback helps us keep this information accurate. Thank you!