A desktop publishing application from Microsoft that focuses on page layout and graphic design.
PubKeep can be considered for a computer running Microsoft 365 because it is a separate third-party application, but Microsoft does not certify or support PubKeep, and the available sources do not conclusively document its coexistence with every Microsoft 365 installation.
PubKeep’s developer says it runs on Windows and Mac and opens and edits Publisher .pub files, including files from Publisher 2002 through Publisher for Microsoft 365.^1^ Early user reviews are generally positive, but the number of reviews is still limited, so they should not be treated as proof that every publication will convert perfectly.^2^^3^
Test it safely
Before buying or moving all your files:
- Back up your
.pubfiles to another folder, external drive, or OneDrive. - Install PubKeep from its official website, checking that its system requirements match your computer.
- Open copies of several publications—not the originals.
- Test a representative selection:
- A simple flyer
- A multi-page newsletter
- A file containing unusual fonts, tables, WordArt, or linked pictures
- Check text wrapping, fonts, page size, image placement, and print preview.
- Save the edited copies, close PubKeep, reopen them, and print or export a PDF.
- Purchase it only if these tests preserve the features that matter to you.
Microsoft states that third-party conversion tools vary in quality and capability and are not supported by Microsoft.^4^
What happened to Publisher
Publisher reached end of life in October 2026. Microsoft 365 subscribers can no longer install it and will lose access as the removal update rolls out. Microsoft recommends converting important publications to PDF for viewing or to Word for editing, although complex layouts can change during Word conversion.^4^
If Publisher still opens on your computer, preserve important files now:
- Open the publication.
- Select File > Save As.
- Choose PDF as the file type.
- Keep the original
.pubfile as well.
For new flyers, cards, labels, or newsletters, Microsoft recommends Word or PowerPoint. For existing .pub documents that must remain editable, PubKeep may be a better fit—but test your own files before relying on it.
References