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Fix Excel SORT Function Replaced by _xlfn._xlws.SORT After Update
Question details
The user needs to restore the normal functionality of the SORT function after an Office update caused it to break and display an unsupported function prefix.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel 2019
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Using dynamic array functions like SORT in an Excel workbook after a recent Microsoft Office version update.
- Observed behavior
- The SORT formula is unexpectedly replaced by {_xlfn._xlws.SORT()}, indicating that the installed Office build no longer recognizes the dynamic array function.
Before modifying your Microsoft Office installation, ensure you save all open workbooks and close any running Office applications. You will need administrative privileges to roll back your Office version.
Roll Back Microsoft Office to a Previous Version
Reverting to an older, stable version of Office is the official workaround to restore dynamic array functions broken by a recent update.
The issue is caused by a bug in the recent Office update (such as Current Channel Version 2311). Rolling back to an earlier stable build (like Monthly Enterprise Channel Version 2309) will restore the SORT function's native behavior.
Type 'cmd' into your Windows search bar, right-click on the Command Prompt app, and select 'Run as administrator'.
In the Command Prompt window, type 'cd %programfiles%\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\ClickToRun' and press Enter.
Type 'officec2rclient.exe /update user updatetoversion=16.0.16827.20278' (or your previously working build number) and press Enter. Wait for the Office update dialog to download and apply the older version.
Open Excel, navigate to File > Account > Update Options, and select 'Disable Updates' to prevent Office from automatically reinstalling the problematic build.
Try WPS Office to Avoid Frustrating Update Issues
If rolling back Microsoft Office updates feels overly complicated or fails to work, WPS Office offers a lightweight, completely free alternative. It seamlessly supports dynamic arrays and Excel formulas without forcing unstable updates on your system.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free office suite.
- 2. Open Your Workbook: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and open your affected .xlsx file.
- 3. Use Formulas Seamlessly: Enjoy native support for functions like SORT without encountering the _xlfn._xlws error prefix.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does _xlfn. mean in an Excel formula?
The _xlfn. prefix appears when a workbook contains a function that is not natively supported by the version of Excel currently running. It stands for 'Excel Function' and serves as a placeholder to preserve the formula's data until it is opened in a compatible version.
Why did the SORT function suddenly stop working in Excel 2019?
Dynamic array functions like SORT are typically available in Microsoft 365. Occasionally, an Office update can introduce a compatibility bug in standalone versions like Excel 2019, causing the software to fail to recognize these newer functions.
Is it safe to disable Microsoft Office updates?
While temporarily disabling updates is a common and safe workaround to avoid buggy software releases, it is highly recommended to re-enable them once Microsoft issues a permanent fix. This ensures your software receives necessary security patches.
Will my spreadsheet data be lost if I roll back the Office update?
No, rolling back your Office installation only affects the application files. It will not delete or modify your personal documents or spreadsheets. However, it is always a best practice to save your work before performing any system changes.
