Function Problems

How to Fix Excel Solver Add-In Not Producing Results

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is experiencing an issue where the Excel Solver Add-in suddenly stopped producing results despite using the same worksheet and parameters.

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Running the Solver Add-in for data optimization and analysis.
Observed behavior: The Solver fails to return any results, and a CORS error is displayed in the browser console when the add-in attempts to contact its tracking service.

Before you start

Ensure your internet connection is stable and temporarily disable any strict network firewalls or ad-blockers that might be blocking the add-in's external requests.

Solution 1Recommended

Check Build Version and Report for Escalation

Since CORS errors typically stem from server-side updates or bugs, providing your exact Excel build helps developers patch the underlying issue.

A Cross-Origin Resource Sharing (CORS) error indicates that the add-in is failing to securely communicate with its external tracking or computation servers. This is often an issue with the software build rather than your specific worksheet.

Locate your exact build number

Open Excel and navigate to File > Account > Product Information to find your full version and build number (e.g., version 2503).

Document the error behavior

Take a screenshot of the browser console showing the CORS error details, along with your current worksheet setup and Solver parameters.

Submit a bug report

Send the documented version number and screenshots to the official Microsoft support channel or escalate it to your IT administrator so the appropriate team can reproduce the issue.

Escalation Requirement: If you are posting this on a support forum, ensure you edit your initial post to include the requested images and build numbers for a faster resolution.

Solution 2

Re-enable the Solver Add-in

Removing and re-adding the Solver can sometimes refresh its cached connection parameters and clear temporary glitches.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a CORS error in the Excel Solver Add-in?

A Cross-Origin Resource Sharing (CORS) error typically occurs when the Solver add-in tries to communicate with an external tracking or computation server, but the server's security settings reject the request. This is usually a server-side bug that requires an update from the developers.

Where can I find my exact Excel build number to report a bug?

You can find your exact Excel build number by opening Excel, clicking on 'File' in the top left corner, selecting 'Account', and checking the 'Product Information' section.

Will my Solver parameters be saved if I reinstall the add-in?

Yes, your optimization models and Solver parameters are saved within the worksheet itself. Disabling and re-enabling the Solver add-in will retain these settings for that specific file.

Excel & Data Problems