Due to the myriad of problems that appear when attempting to run multiple versions of Microsoft Office (think: file associations, Equation Editor, shortcut bars, among other problems), it is best to stick to having one form of Office on your computer. In fact, using the new edition will probably prevent the most headaches.

Something to keep in mind, too: Older versions of Office may not be in a position to open files created with newer versions of Office.

If you insist on running several form of Office, here are a few things you can do to reduce problems you'll run into.

Double Check That Office Versions Are identical Bit Count

You cannot install both 32-bit and 64-bit downloads of Microsoft Office, whatever the suite versions (2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, or Office 365).

Remember that the 32-bit version of Office can operate on either the 32-bit or 64-bit versions of Windows.

Also, Microsoft Office may install as 32-bit by default, if you don't curently have a 64-bit version of Office on your pc, so Microsoft is a great resource for how to opt for the 64-bit version instead, or how to choose which is the best for you generally.

Install Early Versions of Office Before Later Ones

If you're trying to install Microsoft Office 2007 and Microsoft Office 2010 on a single machine, you need to start with Office 2007, for example.

The reason behind this is that every installation involves a lot of moving parts. Each has a specific way its shared programs, registry keys, file name extensions, along with other specifics are handled.

The same holds for Office programs that are purchased separately or that need unique installation. For instance, you might purchase Microsoft Project or Microsoft Visio separately. Earlier versions should still be installed before later versions, across the board.

Tip: You Cannot Do This With Microsoft Outlook

By trying to install a second version of Outlook, the Setup program is only going to achieve this in lieu of other versions you may already have installed.

You'll be prompted either to check mark Keep These Programs or Remove Previous Versions.

Other individuals in the Microsoft Office suite could give you problems as well. Quite a few users report issues when installing multiple versions of Microsoft Access, for instance.

Should you choose run into a situation where some programs install correctly yet others do not, consider uninstalling among the multiple versions of this program if possible. Depending on how your suite is packaged, you may or may not be able to do this on your own. In those cases, you may either go back to using only one form of Office or get in touch with Microsoft for additional perspective.

Tip: Inserted OLE Objects Will Likely Default towards the Earliest Version

In Microsoft Office, OLE Objects (Object Linking and Embedding) are document components from programs other than the main one you're working in. For instance, you may insert an Excel spreadsheet in short document.

If you Insert - OLE Objects right into a document, those objects is going to be formatted according to the most recent version of Office installed on your pc, no matter which version you're working in.

What this means is problems may ensue if you are sharing files with others who have different versions of Office than yours, for example.

Contact Microsoft Support if required

Again, if you decide you need to get into a multi-version install, expect hiccups. Make sure you backup your files, but additionally be prepared with backup keys or installation codes. For those who have any queries about these or to get additional help, please check out Microsoft's Support site.