Excel 16.97 update error

Anonymous

Hi, I am getting an update error installing Microsoft Excel 16.97 on Mac OS Sequoia. I am currently on 16.96. The install stops near the end of the progress bar for a long time and then I get an update error.

I've had similar issues before and resolved by installing from the pkg file but I can't find the 16.97 install file.

Is it possible to download a pkg file?

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21 answers

Anonymous

2025-04-25T16:44:35+00:00
Hi MikePugh2

Thank you for posting here in Community.

I understand how important this with you especially when you've encountered similar issues before and had a workaround that worked. No worries—we’ll figure out a solution to get Microsoft Excel updated properly.

Possible Causes & Fixes
1. Restart & Try Again
  
  Sometimes, a simple restart clears temporary update issues.
  
  Restart your Mac, then attempt the update again.
2. Check Available Disk Space
  
  Go to Apple Menu → About This Mac → Storage.
  
  Ensure you have enough free space for the update. Lack of space can cause installation failures.
3. Install Updates Through Microsoft AutoUpdate
  
  Open Microsoft Excel → Help → Check for Updates.
  
  Make sure Microsoft AutoUpdate is running and can install the update.
4. Delete Temporary Update Files & Retry
  
  Go to Library > Application Support > Microsoft > MAU and delete temporary files.
  
  Then, restart the update process.
5. Download & Install Excel Manually
  
  While Microsoft typically provides updates through AutoUpdate, you can try downloading the latest version directly: Microsoft Office for Mac. Update history for Office for Mac - Office release notes | Microsoft Learn - You can choose the latest standalone Excel
  
  April 15, 2025 16.96 (25041326)
6. Try Installing in Safe Mode
  
  Restart your Mac and hold Shift to enter Safe Mode.
  
  Then, attempt to install the update from there.
Hopefully one of these fixes gets Excel running smoothly for you again!

Best regards,

Bo

Microsoft Community
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