Why doesn't my laptop access Word?

I have a Lenovo Ideapad 100S.

I used to be able to open, edit, save and create word documents on it and I did not need to sign into Office to do it.
As of recent months I can't open any Documents I created on Word 2010 and I keep getting a message that "Microsoft starter does not work on this version of windows."
I get the feeling that something was changed on my laptop that I did not change myself.
Anyone know what happened? It seems that Microsoft word 2010 hardly works on any computer that I tried. Is it some change in the entire system?

Anyone know how I can install Word 2010 without paying for it? I keep getting messages that I have to pay to get Word again.

fewnotmuch

Microsoft is in the process of withdrawing Microsoft Office Starter from use.

If you want to use Word 2010 - you'll need to buy a copy; or use one of the free alternatives such as AbiWord, OpenOffice, LibreOffice etc.

Chris P

Microsoft starter is that a program or does it mean you had a free version that is now outdated?

Marie K

You can't install Word without paying for it!
Well: You can, but only if you are using Windows 10 and download the mobile version (rather than the full version) from the Windows Store.
OR you can use Word for free as a web app - create / use your Microsoft Services Account at www.onedrive.com and edit the document in your browser.

Microsoft Starter is different to Microsoft Word.

chrisjbsc