VBA & Macro Problems

Fix Excel VBA Macro Running Slowly or Hanging After Microsoft 365 Update

Maira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 871 views

Question details

Users report that Excel VBA reporting macros utilizing multiple loops and arrays run noticeably slower or hang indefinitely without error messages following a recent Microsoft 365 update.

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Running complex VBA reporting macros with loops and arrays after updating Microsoft 365.
Observed behavior: The macro execution slows down significantly or hangs entirely without throwing any error messages.

Before you start

Verify your current Microsoft 365 build version by navigating to File > Account before attempting to update or roll back your software.

Solution 1Recommended

Update Microsoft 365 to the Latest Build

Updating to Version 2408 (build 17928.20156 or later) resolves the performance bug affecting VBA macros in the previous build.

Microsoft frequently releases updates to patch known bugs. Build 17928.20114 contained a performance issue affecting VBA loops, which was addressed in the subsequent release.

Open Excel Account Settings

Launch Microsoft Excel, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Account' from the left-hand menu.

Check for Updates

Under 'Product Information', click on the 'Update Options' button and select 'Update Now' from the drop-down menu.

Complete the Update

Wait for Office to download and install the updates. Once complete, restart Excel and run your VBA macro to verify the performance is restored.

Update Verification: Ensure your build number shows as 17928.20156 or higher after the update is complete.

Solution 2

Roll Back to a Previous Microsoft 365 Version

If updating is not possible or does not resolve the issue, rolling back to an earlier, stable version of Office using the Click-to-Run command will bypass the bug.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Macro Execution

If Microsoft 365 updates frequently disrupt your workflow with bugs, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative for handling spreadsheets and complex data without the heavy update overhead.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for your operating system.
2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
3. Open Your Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Spreadsheets, open your macro-enabled workbook, and continue your work without interruptions.

Free to download and use with a familiar, easy-to-learn interface.Highly compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls, .xlsm) and macro-enabled formats.Lightweight design ensures fast loading and smooth performance on all devices.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my Excel VBA macro suddenly stop working?

If your macro was working perfectly before, a recent Office update (specifically Microsoft 365 version 17928.20114) contains a known performance bug that severely slows down or hangs loops and arrays in VBA.

How do I find my current Microsoft 365 build version?

Open Microsoft Excel, click on 'File', and select 'Account'. Your current version and build number will be displayed on the right side under the 'About Excel' section.

Will rolling back my Office version delete my files?

No, rolling back your Microsoft 365 installation only reverts the software application to a previous state. It does not affect, modify, or delete any of your personal files or spreadsheets.

Excel & Data Problems