If you’re looking to install Microsoft Office with more control and flexibility, the Office Deployment Tool (ODT) 2021 is the perfect solution. This official utility from Microsoft allows you to customize your installation based on your needs.
Simply download the .exe file and run it to begin. Whether you want to install specific Office programs, skip updates, or manage settings across multiple devices, ODT makes it easy.
If this version isn’t compatible with your system, you can also check out older releases that might work better for you.
Tool Details
- Tool Name: Office Deployment Tool
- Abbreviation: ODT Tool
- Version: 16.0.18129.20030
- Release Date: August 10, 2021
- File Name: officedeploymenttool_18129-20030.exe
- File Size: 3.6 MB
- Publisher: Microsoft Corporation, Inc.
Note: Always review the installation instructions and configuration options before proceeding, especially if you’re deploying across a network or managing multiple devices.
What is the Office Deployment Tool?
The Office Deployment Tool is a lightweight command-line utility that allows users to configure, customize, and deploy Office products. It’s especially useful for IT professionals and power users who want to streamline their installations.
Why Use ODT?
- Customize your Office 365 installation
- Install selected apps only
- Save system space and avoid bloatware
- Great for enterprise and advanced users
ODT 2021 - Tool Details
| Tool Name | Office Deployment Tool |
|---|---|
| Short Name | ODT |
| Version | 16.0.18129.20030 |
| Published | 10 August 2021 |
| File Name | officedeploymenttool_18129-20030.exe |
| Size | 3.6 MB |
| Publisher | Microsoft Corporation |
How to Download ODT (Office Deployment Tool)
- Click the Download button on this page or visit the official Microsoft website.
- Optionally check the Release History for older versions if the current one isn't compatible.
- Choose your language preference.
- Click Download to begin.
How to Use Office Deployment Tool to Install Microsoft Office
Once you’ve downloaded the tool, here’s how to install Office in a fully customized way:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Run the ODT installer as Administrator. It will extract files like
setup.exeand a sample configuration XML file. - Go to the Office Customization Tool.
- Select your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) and choose the Office suite (e.g., Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise).
- Select the apps you want to install (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Choose your preferred language and click Finish.
- Click the Export button, select the default XML file format, then click OK.
- Agree to the license terms by checking the box and then click Export again.
- Download the configuration XML file and place it in the same folder as the ODT files.
- Open Windows PowerShell (Shift + Right-click in the folder) and enter the following command:
.\setup.exe /configure .\configuration.xml- The command will begin installing Office as per your custom settings.
- After installation, you can start using Microsoft 365 apps — free for 5 days without a product key.
Note: Rename the downloaded configuration file to configuration.xml before running the command.
Common Installation Issue & Fix
If you encounter the error “The configuration file wasn’t specified”, it usually means you're using the wrong XML file. Always generate the configuration from the Office Customization Tool to avoid this issue.
With the Office Deployment Tool, you can finally take control of your Microsoft Office setup!
System Requirements for Office Deployment Tool 2021
Before using the Office Deployment Tool (ODT) to install Microsoft Office, it’s important to ensure your system meets the minimum requirements. While the official Microsoft page highlights supported versions like Windows 10, 11, and Windows Server 2016 through 2022, there are a few additional specs to be aware of for a smooth experience.
Recommended System Specifications
- Operating System: Windows 8.1, Windows 10, Windows 11
- Memory (RAM): 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended)
- Processor: Dual-core 1.7 GHz or faster
- Storage: At least 4 GB of free disk space
- Display: Minimum resolution of 1024 × 768 pixels
- Graphics: DirectX 10 compatible GPU
Essential Microsoft 365 Applications
Microsoft 365 includes a broad collection of productivity tools. However, some applications are particularly useful for day-to-day business and personal tasks. Here’s a list of must-have apps you should consider installing:
- Microsoft Word – Word processing made easy
- Microsoft Excel – For spreadsheets and data analysis
- Microsoft PowerPoint – Build stunning presentations
- Microsoft Outlook – Manage email and calendars
- Microsoft OneNote – Note-taking and information capture
- Microsoft Access – Create and manage databases
- Microsoft Publisher – Desktop publishing tool
- Microsoft Forms – Surveys and forms creation
- Microsoft Lists – Organize tasks and projects
- Microsoft OneDrive – Cloud storage solution
- Microsoft Designer – For creating professional visuals
- Microsoft Clipchamp – Video editing made simple
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Have questions about using the Office Deployment Tool? Check out these common queries and their answers to guide you through installation and troubleshooting:
- Q: Can I install Office without all the apps?
A: Yes, ODT lets you pick only the apps you want to install, so you don’t need to add the full suite. - Q: Do I need an internet connection to use ODT?
A: Yes, an active internet connection is required to download Office files and apply updates. - Q: Why do I see the error “Configuration file wasn’t specified”?
A: This usually happens if you use the default configuration file from the installer. Make sure you generate one from the Office Customization Tool. - Q: Can I use ODT on Windows 7?
A: Officially, Microsoft supports ODT on Windows 8.1 and above. For best results, use it on Windows 10 or later. - Q: How long can I use Office without activation?
A: Office apps can be used for a limited trial period (usually 5 days) before requiring activation.
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.
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.
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.
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 this guide helps you smoothly download and install the Office Deployment Tool without any hassle. Each step has been outlined to ensure the installation process is as simple and effective as possible. Just follow along carefully, and you'll have Microsoft Office up and running in no time. If you run into any problems or have questions about the tool, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email—we’re here to help! If you found this guide useful, please consider sharing it with your friends on social media or WhatsApp. Someone else might be looking for the same solution!