What Is MS Publisher?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 27, 2020

MS Publisher, or Microsoft Publisher, is desktop publishing software authored by Microsoft that is part of the Microsoft Office package or suite. MS Publisher is an entry-level program that allows users to place emphasis on layout, pictures and effects.

Microsoft Publisher was first released in 1991, prior to Windows computers. The first Microsoft Publisher release was for Windows 95 in 1995. Since that time, MS Publisher has had many updated versions, usually included with Microsoft Office for small business. Any owner of MS Office can try Publisher free of charge before buying, and some versions include Publisher with purchase. Publisher is downloadable from Microsoft’s website.