Overview
This guide explains how HYMS users can access and install Microsoft 365 software on a PC, laptop, or Mac.
Summary information
All HYMS accounts can use Microsoft 365 apps online in a web browser. Only some account types can install the full Microsoft 365 desktop apps. Honorary and Other Contributor accounts cannot download Microsoft 365.
1. Who can install Microsoft 365?
Who can install
Whether you can install Microsoft 365 depends on your HYMS account type.
Eligibility table
Important: If you cannot see the “Install apps” option in portal.office.com, it usually means your HYMS account type does not include installation rights.
2. Accessing Microsoft 365 in a web browser (available to all)
Microsoft 365 in a web browser
All HYMS users can access the online versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
Steps
- Open your browser.
- Go to https://portal.office.com
- Sign in using your HYMS email (e.g. hy123@hyms.ac.uk) and password.
- When the Microsoft 365 home screen loads, Click Apps at the bottom Left hand side of the screen
- You now have access to the web‑based Microsoft 365 apps.
3. How to install Microsoft 365 (eligible accounts only)
Install Microsoft 365
If your HYMS account type allows installation (see eligibility table above), follow the steps below.
Tip: Use private/incognito mode to avoid Microsoft auto‑logging you into the wrong account.
Step‑by‑step installation
- Open a private browsing window.
- Go to https://portal.office.com
- Sign in using your HYMS email (e.g. hy123@hyms.ac.uk) and password.
- When the Microsoft 365 home screen loads, Click Apps at the bottom Left hand side of the screen.
- At the top right of the screen select the dropdown Install apps and select Microsoft 365 Apps.
- The account page will open with the Install Office button option
4. If you cannot Install Microsoft 365
Cannot install Microsoft 365
If installation does not appear as an option, consider the following:
Your HYMS account may not have installation rights
- Honorary and Other Contributor accounts do not include Microsoft 365 desktop app licences.
- You can still access all apps online.
You may be able to install via another organisation’s Microsoft 365 account
Some users may have access through:
- A University of York Microsoft 365 account
- A University of Hull Microsoft 365 account
- Certain NHS Microsoft 365 accounts
If this applies, contact local IT support.
You may be logged into the wrong Microsoft account
Fix:
- Switch to private/incognito mode
- Log out of all other Microsoft accounts
5. Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
Problem: Microsoft logs me into the wrong account
- Use private browsing mode.
- Log out of all other Microsoft accounts.
Problem: No “Install apps” button appears
- Your HYMS account likely does not include installation rights.
Problem: Installation fails on NHS‑managed devices
- NHS devices may restrict software installation.
- Contact NHS IT support.