How to Download a Trial of Publisher

Microsoft Publisher 2010 is a desktop publishing program included in some versions of the Office 2010 suite. Its primary purpose is to create printable documents such as signs and brochures. If you're interested in trying Microsoft Publisher but don't want to purchase the full Office suite, download a free trial from Microsoft. Microsoft makes Publisher 2010 available at no cost for a period of 60 days. You can use this period to evaluate the software and determine whether you would like to buy it.

Skill level:Moderately Easy

Instructions

1 Open your Web browser to Microsoft's (buyoffice.Microsoft.com) download page for the Publisher 2010 trial. Click the green "Try free for 60 days" button.

2 Enter your Windows Live or Hotmail e-mail address and password to log in. If you don't have a Windows Live or Hotmail account, follow the instructions on the page to create one.

3 Type your first and last name, and then click "Continue to Checkout."

4 Record the alphanumeric code next to "Product Key" near the bottom of the window. This key gives you the ability to use the Microsoft Publisher 2010 trial for 60 days.

5 Click the green "Download Now" button, and save the file "X16-32967.exe" to the desktop.

6 Double-click the file "X16-32967.exe" on the desktop after the download is complete. Windows extracts the contents of the installation package.

7 Type the 25-character product key, and then click "Continue."

8 Click "I accept the terms of this agreement," and then click "Continue."

9 Click "Install Now." The installation utility installs the Publisher 2010 trial and displays the message "Complete Your Office Experience" when the process is finished.

10 Click the "Close" button. Launch the Publisher 2010 trial from the "Microsoft Office" folder in the "Start" menu.