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Fix "Could Not Load File" When Opening SharePoint Files in Office
Question details
The user encounters a "Could not load file" error when trying to open a SharePoint Online document using the "Open in desktop app" option.
- Product
- Microsoft Office, SharePoint Online
- Device & OS
- Windows / Mac
- Scenario
- Attempting to open documents from SharePoint Online in the local Microsoft Office desktop application.
- Observed behavior
- The document successfully opens in the web browser but displays a "Could not load file" error message when launched in the local desktop app, even after reinstalling Office.
Ensure that your internet connection is stable and verify that the document is not currently checked out by another user in SharePoint Online.
Verify Microsoft 365 License and Refresh Session
Ensure your Microsoft 365 account has the correct license for desktop applications and refresh your login session to clear authentication glitches.
Often, SharePoint relies on a valid desktop license to launch local applications. If your account only has a web-based license, the desktop handoff will fail.
Navigate to the Microsoft 365 subscriptions page in your web browser and verify that 'The latest desktop version of Office' is assigned to your account.
In SharePoint Online, ensure the file is not currently checked out by another user or restricted by specific permissions.
Open any Office desktop application, sign out of your account, close all Office apps, restart your computer, and sign back in.
Clear Office Cache and Credentials on Mac
If you are using a Mac, corrupted identity caches or container files can cause loading errors and must be manually removed.
Open and Edit Documents Seamlessly with WPS Office
If Microsoft Office desktop apps frequently fail to load your files due to complex licensing or cache errors, try WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative to manage all your productivity needs without authentication hassles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my SharePoint file open in the browser but not the desktop app?
This usually happens if your Microsoft 365 account lacks a desktop app license, the file is checked out or restricted by permissions, or there is a credential cache conflict on your computer.
How do I check if my Microsoft 365 license includes desktop apps?
Log in to the Microsoft 365 portal, navigate to your account's Subscriptions page, and verify if 'The latest desktop version of Office' is listed under your assigned licenses.
Is it safe to delete the UBF8T3469G.Office folder on Mac?
Deleting this folder resets your Office configurations and clears caching issues, but it will also delete your local Outlook data and signatures. Always back up your Outlook files before removing it.
