Excel Error Codes

Fix Excel WEBSERVICE #VALUE Error in Microsoft 365

Nimra Malik Oct 10, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user is attempting to fetch data from an external API using the WEBSERVICE function, but the formula returns a #VALUE error despite external content being enabled and Office being updated.

How to Fix Excel WEBSERVICE #VALUE Error in Microsoft 365

Product: Microsoft Excel 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Using the WEBSERVICE function to retrieve external API data (such as the NASA API) into an Excel spreadsheet.
Observed behavior: The function returns a #VALUE! error instead of the expected JSON or XML response, even though the exact same formula works successfully for other users.

Before you start

Verify that your computer has an active internet connection and ensure that external data connections are explicitly allowed in the Excel Trust Center settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Test Alternative HTTPS URLs to Isolate the Issue

Determine whether the error is specific to the target API URL or a systemic issue with Excel's network configuration by testing alternative reliable endpoints.

If a specific URL like the NASA API fails for you but works for others, the issue could be caused by local security policies, proxy misconfigurations, or API limitations blocklisting your Excel user agent. Testing a neutral, stable URL helps isolate the core problem.

Open a blank workbook

Launch Microsoft Excel and create a new blank workbook to ensure no existing workbook settings interfere with your test.

Enter a test WEBSERVICE formula

Select an empty cell and type a test formula using a highly available public endpoint, such as =WEBSERVICE("https://api.github.com").

Evaluate the result

Press Enter. If the cell displays JSON text, your Excel WEBSERVICE function works, and the issue lies with the original NASA URL. If it still returns #VALUE!, your Excel client or network is blocking the request entirely.

Test Alternative HTTPS URLs to Isolate the Issue

Examine URL character limits: The WEBSERVICE function will automatically return a #VALUE! error if the URL string exceeds 2048 characters, or if the returned data exceeds the 32,767 character limit of a single Excel cell.

Solution 2

Verify Local Network, Proxy, and Security Settings

Check if Windows or corporate security policies are preventing Microsoft Excel from making external HTTP/HTTPS requests.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Excel WEBSERVICE return a #VALUE! error?

This error generally happens when the provided URL string is invalid, the target server cannot be reached due to proxy or firewall restrictions, or the API response exceeds Excel's maximum cell limit of 32,767 characters.

How do I enable external data connections for WEBSERVICE in Excel?

Navigate to File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > External Content. Choose to enable all data connections and linked data types, then restart your Excel application to apply the changes.

Does the WEBSERVICE function work on Excel for Mac?

No, the WEBSERVICE function is currently only supported on Excel for Windows and Excel for the Web. Attempting to use it on a Mac will result in a #NAME? or #VALUE! error depending on the exact build.

Microsoft Office Error Codes