MS Office does not run on the desktop.

Moore Jessica 0 Reputation points
2026-08-11T05:40:10.2266667+00:00

MS Office does not run on the desktop.

Outlook works fine, but when I launch Office (Excel), the following keeps appearing.

I tried uninstalling and reinstalling Office, but... it won't uninstall either.

Please reply.

Microsoft 365 and Office | Install, redeem, activate | For education | Other
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  1. Jade Ng 15,470 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-08-11T06:30:17.9+00:00

    Dear Moore Jessica,

    Based on your description, I understand that Outlook opens normally, but Excel (and other Office desktop applications) do not launch. I also understand that you have already attempted to uninstall and reinstall Office, but the uninstall process itself is failing.

    First, please kindly let me know some information:

    1. What version of Office are you using?
    2. What happens when you open Excel?
    3. Could you please provide a screenshot you are seeing? I am unable to see the image referenced in your description.
    4. Additionally, you mentioned that you were unable to uninstall Office. Could you please let me know what happens when you try to uninstall it?

    In the meantime, please verify that your Microsoft 365 license is still active, as some desktop Office issues can occur when the desktop app entitlement has expired or is no longer assigned to the account. To check this:

    1. Visit this link: https://portal.office.com/account/?ref=Harmony
    2. Once signed in, navigate to the Subscriptions section
    3. There, you should be able to view details related to your active Office 365 plan.

    This page will show you information such as your subscription type, billing status, renewal date, and any linked licenses.

    Next, please try these troubleshooting steps below:

    1.Repair the Office installation:

    • Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
    • Locate Microsoft 365 / Office.
    • Select Modify > Online Repair and complete the repair process.

    2.Open Excel in Safe Mode: Press Windows + R, type excel /safe, and then press Enter.

    I look forward to your update. The additional information should help me identify the next troubleshooting steps.

    Thank you very much for your valuable time and your cooperation 

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  2. Senthil kumar 2,410 Reputation points
    2026-08-11T06:14:12.14+00:00

    Hi @Moore Jessica

    First confirm which OS and version details.

    If in windows uninstall the office restart your pc then try to install office again.

    if facing the same issue after reinstall press windows key in search box type eventviewer. go to eventviewer -> windows logs-> application and eventviewer -> windows logs-> system both folder check any error reported. if any error found please share the screenshot. we will try to fix the issue.

    Thanks.

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