How to Download Microsoft Works for Free

Most new computers come pre-loaded with some type of word processing program, but if you have a home-built, or used computer that is missing a word processor, you may be interested in looking for a way to download Microsoft Works for free. Currently, Microsoft offers a free, ad-supported version of Microsoft Works on new computers called Works SE, but it is unavailable for download from the Microsoft website. There are many suspicious websites that offer "free" downloads of Microsoft Works, but these are illegal, non-licensed editions of software that could get you in legal trouble and possibly harm your computer. Fortunately, there are other ways to find a comparable free word processor online.

Download a free 90-day trial of the official software from the Microsoft Office website. Simply click to download and you'll be up and running in a matter of minutes, depending on the speed of your Internet connection. After the trial period, you'll be prompted to purchase the full version or your software will expire and be unusable.

Download Open Office's Writer word processor. Writer is a fully functional word processor program that works similarly to Microsoft Works and is completely free to download and install on as many computers as you want. It takes a few minutes to download, and then you can begin creating new documents.

A third option is download Google docs, another free word processing program. This works a bit differently than Open Office because you don't have to download any software to your computer. All you need to access Google Docs is a Google account (which is free). In order to access Google Docs, log in with your account information and instantly get started creating word processing documents. You will also be able to store, share and edit your documents online.