Fix Excel XLSB and XLSM Files Crashing or Losing Macros
Question details
Users are encountering an issue where macro-enabled Excel workbooks crash or lose their macros during operation, though they temporarily work after being emailed back and forth.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Working with macro-enabled workbooks (.xlsb and .xlsm formats) for data processing or automation.
- Observed behavior
- The XLSB or XLSM files crash unexpectedly or appear to strip out macros entirely, indicating potential file corruption or software conflicts within the environment.
Before proceeding, ensure that your Microsoft 365 applications are fully updated to the latest build, and save a backup copy of your macro-enabled workbooks to a local drive.
Request Support via Microsoft 365 Admin Center
Since this behavior often points to deep software conflicts or server-side corruption affecting macro files, engaging Microsoft Support is the most reliable path to resolution.
This issue is frequently caused by underlying software conflicts within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Since the files work intermittently after being emailed, the root cause may involve local environment settings or background updates.
Have your Microsoft 365 administrator sign in to the Microsoft 365 admin center using their administrator credentials.
On the left-hand navigation pane of the admin dashboard, click on 'Support' and then select 'New service request'.
Provide a detailed description of the XLSB and XLSM crashing behavior, noting that files temporarily work after being emailed, and submit the ticket for investigation.
Open Excel in Safe Mode to Test for Add-in Conflicts
Running Excel in Safe Mode bypasses installed add-ins, helping you determine if a third-party plugin is causing your macro files to crash.
Try WPS Office for Stable Macro Support
If you are constantly facing macro crashes, missing VBA modules, or software conflicts in Microsoft Excel, WPS Office provides a lightweight and highly compatible alternative. WPS Spreadsheet includes robust VBA macro support and flawlessly reads XLSM and XLSB formats.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download the free WPS Office suite from the official website and install it on your computer.
- 2. Open Your Macro File: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and go to Menu > Open to load your existing .xlsm or .xlsb files.
- 3. Run Macros Securely: Navigate to the Developer tab to enable, edit, and run your VBA macros in a stable environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my XLSM and XLSB files losing macros?
Files may appear to lose macros due to corrupted COM add-ins, aggressive antivirus scanning removing macro modules, or strict Trust Center macro security settings blocking the scripts from loading. Software conflicts in updates can also trigger this behavior.
What is the difference between XLSB and XLSM formats?
Both formats support macros. XLSM is a macro-enabled XML-based workbook, while XLSB is a binary workbook format. XLSB files are typically smaller and load faster for large datasets, but both can experience crashing issues if the Excel installation or background software has conflicts.
How do I fix Excel crashing when running a macro?
Start by opening Excel in Safe Mode (typing 'excel /safe' in the Windows Run dialog) to rule out add-in conflicts. If the issue persists, run an Online Repair of Microsoft Office from the Windows Control Panel, or have your admin open a support request.
