Initiate Office Deployment Tool 2021 Download

You can access the official Office Deployment Tool right here. After downloading the installer, just run the .exe file to get started. This tool allows you to install Microsoft Office in a highly customized manner, letting you choose only the apps you need. If the latest version isn’t compatible with your system, you can also explore and download older versions of ODT. Be sure to review the installation details carefully before proceeding.

Office Deployment Tool - Technical Details
Tool Name Microsoft Office Deployment Tool
Abbreviation ODT
Version 16.0.18129.20030
Release Date August 10, 2021
Installer File Name officedeploymenttool_18129-20030.exe
File Size 3.6 MB (approx.)
Developer Microsoft Corporation


What Is Office Deployment Tool (ODT) 2021?

The Office Deployment Tool (ODT) is a powerful command-line utility provided by Microsoft that allows users to install Microsoft Office in a fully customized manner. Rather than installing the entire suite of Microsoft 365 apps, ODT lets you choose exactly which applications you want on your system — a perfect solution for users looking to avoid unnecessary software.

Not sure how to get started? Don’t worry — we’ll guide you step-by-step through downloading and installing the tool.

Steps to Download the Office Deployment Tool

Getting the Office Deployment Tool is quick and straightforward. Here’s how to do it in just a few steps:

  1. Click on the Download button or head directly to Microsoft’s official website.
  2. Browse the Release History section if you need an older version for compatibility reasons.
  3. Select your desired language and click Download next to the preferred release.

Installing Microsoft Office with ODT

Once the installer is on your PC, you’ll need to run it with admin privileges. This will extract two essential files: setup.exe and a sample configuration.xml file. Make sure you configure the XML properly to avoid installation errors.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide:

  1. Right-click the ODT installer and choose "Run as Administrator" to extract setup files.
  2. Go to the Office Customization Tool to create your configuration file.
  3. Select the architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) and the Office apps you wish to deploy (e.g., Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise).
  4. Pick the individual applications you want to install on your computer.
  5. Choose your preferred language and click Finish.
  6. Click Export, select the default file format, and proceed with OK.
  7. Accept the license agreement and export the configuration.xml file.
  8. Place the configuration.xml in the same folder as setup.exe.
  9. Open the folder where the files are located, press Ctrl + Shift + Right Click, and choose “Open PowerShell window here.”
  10. Type the following command and press Enter:
  11. .\setup.exe /configure .\configuration.xml
  12. The setup will begin automatically and install Office based on your configuration file.

Note: Make sure the configuration file is named exactly configuration.xml for the command to work properly.

Common Installation Issue

If you see an error like "The configuration file wasn't specified," it's likely due to an incorrect or incompatible XML file. Avoid using the sample file that comes with ODT — instead, always generate a new one using the Office Customization Tool. This ensures compatibility and avoids setup interruptions.

By following these instructions carefully, you’ll be able to install Microsoft Office in just a few minutes — with only the apps you truly need!

Couldn't Install Error

System Requirements for Office Deployment Tool (ODT) 2021

While some prerequisites are highlighted on Microsoft’s official ODT download page, here’s a complete list of what your system should meet to ensure a smooth Microsoft Office installation and experience.

  • Supported Operating Systems: Windows 8.1, Windows 10, Windows 11
  • RAM: Minimum 2GB (4GB recommended for smoother performance)
  • Processor: Dual-core, 1.7GHz or faster
  • Disk Space: At least 4GB of free storage
  • Display Resolution: Minimum 1024 × 768 pixels
  • Graphics: DirectX 10 compatible graphics card

Must-Have Microsoft 365 Applications

Microsoft 365 includes a large suite of apps, but the following tools are essential for daily productivity in most professional or academic settings:

  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft Publisher
  • Microsoft OneNote
  • Microsoft Forms
  • Microsoft Lists
  • Microsoft OneDrive
  • Microsoft Designer
  • Microsoft Clipchamp

Frequently Asked Questions – ODT 2021

If you're installing the Office Deployment Tool for the first time or facing issues, these FAQs might help clarify things:

  • How do I properly install the Office Deployment Tool?
  • What should I do if I encounter an XML configuration file error?
  • Can I customize which Microsoft 365 apps get installed?
  • Where can I access and download older versions of ODT?

These and other common questions are answered in our full installation guide to help you deploy Office efficiently and without errors.

What is the confuguration.xml file?

The configuration.xml file contains instructions on customizing and installing the Microsoft 365 Apps for Office Deployment Tool such as MS Office version, language, and architechture (32bit or 64bit) of the windows.

Is the Office Deployment Tool compatible with Windows 10 or 11?

Yes, the Office Deployment Tool is fully compatible with the current version of Windows 10 and Windows 11, provided it meets the minimum system requirements.

What are the minimum system requirements for ODT?

The minimal system requirements to run the ODT tool are Windows 10 or 11 with a 1.7 GHz processor, at least 4GB of hard disk space, and 2GB of RAM. A display resolution of 1024x768 will work well and it's recommended to have a DirectX 10 Graphics card.

Can I use ODT to deploy Office offline?

Yes, There's an offline method for deploying Microsoft Office offline using ODT. You can download all required office files to your computer and perform the installation without an internet connection.

We hope you’re able to download and set up the Office Deployment Tool (ODT) smoothly and install Microsoft Office without any hassle. The entire process has been clearly outlined to ensure maximum ease and efficiency. Simply follow each step with care, and you'll have Office up and running on your system in no time. If you run into any issues or errors during installation, don’t hesitate to reach out via email—we’re here to help. You can also show your support by sharing this guide with friends or colleagues on social media or WhatsApp who might benefit from having the ODT tool.