> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.grunt.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Get started

> Install the Grunt PowerPoint add-in, activate your license, and verify the ribbon is ready

Use this guide to install Grunt and confirm it is ready in PowerPoint.

## Prerequisites

* Windows 10 or Windows 11, with PowerPoint 2016 or later recommended
* Your Grunt installer from [app.grunt.pro/download](https://app.grunt.pro/download)
* A company email address with an active Grunt license

<Info>
  Legacy support content also references a Mac beta build. If you are deploying on macOS, use the installer variant that matches your hardware.
</Info>

## Install Grunt

1. Download the installer from [app.grunt.pro/download](https://app.grunt.pro/download).
2. Use the default `x64` installer unless you are on a legacy 32-bit system.
3. Close all running PowerPoint windows.
4. Run the installer.
5. Open PowerPoint and confirm the **Grunt** tab appears in the ribbon.

Grunt normally installs to `C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Programs\Grunt\`. This default install does not usually require admin rights.

## Activate your license

The first time Grunt starts, it should prompt you to validate your license.

1. Enter your company email address.
2. Open the validation email that Grunt sends you.
3. Complete the validation flow.
4. Return to PowerPoint and confirm Grunt opens normally.

If the prompt does not appear:

1. Open PowerPoint.
2. Go to **Grunt** > **Settings** > **License**.
3. Refresh or complete the license flow from there.

## If installation does not complete

Start with these checks:

* If Windows reports an Office add-in trust issue, ask IT to allow COM add-ins in Office.
* If startup reports a certificate issue, install the Grunt certificate into **Trusted Publishers** from the installer's **Digital Signatures** tab.
* If the **Grunt** tab is still missing after install, restart PowerPoint and re-enable the add-in from PowerPoint's disabled or inactive add-in lists.

## Next steps

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Work with data" icon="diagram-project" href="/powerpoint-add-in/user/work-with-data">
    Create visuals, link to Excel, and manage overrides safely.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Export and sharing" icon="file-code" href="/powerpoint-add-in/user/export-and-sharing">
    Export for compatibility, or send slides directly by email.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>