OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Excel Files Stuck on "Still Loading" on Mac

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 868 views

Question details

Excel files stored on OneDrive are indefinitely stuck on the "Still loading" or "Still opening" screen when accessed on a Mac, despite functioning normally on an iPhone.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive and Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: macOS
Scenario: Attempting to open and edit OneDrive Excel files on a Mac.
Observed behavior: The Excel files fail to fully open, displaying a continuous "Still loading" or "Still opening" message on the Mac.

Before you start

Verify your Mac has a stable internet connection and check the Microsoft Office Service Status page to ensure there are no ongoing OneDrive server outages.

Solution 1Recommended

Clear Browser Cache and Update macOS

Clearing corrupted browser data and updating the operating system resolves software conflicts that cause loading loops.

Often, temporary files stored in your web browser can become corrupted, preventing OneDrive from properly executing web-based Excel files. Refreshing the browser data and system OS provides a clean environment for file processing.

Try an alternative browser

Open a different supported web browser (such as Safari, Google Chrome, or Microsoft Edge) on your Mac and navigate to the OneDrive website to see if the file loads.

Clear cookies and cache

In your primary browser's settings menu, navigate to the privacy or history section and clear all site cookies and cached files for all time.

Restart your Mac

Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select 'Restart' to clear temporary system glitches.

Update your macOS

Go to System Settings > General > Software Update and install any pending system updates to ensure optimal compatibility with OneDrive.

Account Sign-in: Clearing your browser cache will log you out of most websites, so ensure you have your Microsoft account credentials ready before proceeding.

Solution 2

Download the File Locally

Isolates whether the problem is a browser/network issue or if the specific Excel file itself is corrupted.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Seamlessly Edit Spreadsheets on Mac with WPS Office

If OneDrive and Microsoft Excel continue to have loading issues on your Mac, WPS Office provides a highly compatible, free alternative for opening and editing your Excel workbooks effortlessly.

1. Install WPS Office for Mac: Download and install the free WPS Office application from the official website or Mac App Store.
2. Open Your Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and directly open the downloaded .xlsx file.
3. Edit and Save: Easily edit your spreadsheet and save it back in standard Excel format to maintain compatibility.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel formats (.xlsx, .xls, .csv).Free to use with a familiar, user-friendly tabbed interface.Lightweight application that opens large spreadsheets instantly without loading loops.Built-in cloud support for seamless file synchronization across Mac, iOS, and PC.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my OneDrive Excel files stuck on loading on my Mac?

This issue is frequently caused by corrupted browser cache data, outdated macOS versions, or temporary synchronization glitches between the web browser and Microsoft's OneDrive servers.

Can I access my stuck OneDrive files on another device?

Yes. As long as the file itself is not corrupted, Excel files that are stuck on a Mac will often load normally when accessed via the OneDrive mobile app on an iPhone or iPad.

Will clearing my browser cache delete my OneDrive files?

No, clearing your browser's cookies and cache only removes temporary website data stored locally on your Mac. It will not delete or alter any files stored in your cloud OneDrive account.

What should I do if the Excel file won't open even after downloading it?

If the file fails to open locally, it may be corrupted. Try logging into OneDrive on the web, right-clicking the file, selecting 'Version history', and restoring an older, working version of the spreadsheet.

Document & File Issues