How to Stop the Excel Workbook Performance Check Pop-Up
Question details
The user wants to disable the disruptive "Check Workbook Performance" pop-up that appears when opening certain spreadsheets.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Opening or working on an Excel workbook where the application automatically triggers a performance check.
- Observed behavior
- Excel displays a persistent "Check Workbook Performance" pop-up at startup, and there is no visible setting to turn it off.
Ensure your current spreadsheet is saved and Microsoft Excel is closed before checking for application updates or modifying settings.
Update Microsoft Office to the Latest Version
Since many versions of Excel lack a direct toggle to disable this pop-up, checking for recent Microsoft updates is the best way to see if the feature has been added.
At the time the issue was widely reported, Excel did not provide a built-in setting to disable the workbook performance check. However, Microsoft continuously evaluates user feedback and frequently rolls out updates that add new user preferences.
Launch Microsoft Excel, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Account' from the bottom-left menu.
Under the Product Information section, click on 'Update Options' and select 'Update Now' from the drop-down menu.
Once the updates are downloaded and installed, restart Excel and check the application Options menu to see if a new setting to disable performance checks has been integrated.
Report the Issue via Microsoft Feedback
If updating does not resolve the issue, sending direct feedback helps encourage Microsoft to prioritize adding a disable button for this feature.
Experience Uninterrupted Spreadsheets with WPS Office
Tired of disruptive pop-ups and forced performance checks in Microsoft Excel? Switch to WPS Office for a lightweight, fast, and entirely free spreadsheet experience that lets you focus on your work without unnecessary interruptions.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Open Your Spreadsheets: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and directly open your existing .xlsx files to enjoy an uninterrupted workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Excel show the Workbook Performance pop-up?
Excel triggers this pop-up when it detects excess formatting, unused styled cells, or metadata that might be slowing down the workbook's performance.
Can I permanently disable the performance check in Excel?
In many versions of Excel, there is no built-in toggle to completely disable this feature. Microsoft has considered adding an option in newer updates, so keeping your software updated is highly recommended.
Does ignoring the performance check affect my spreadsheet data?
No, ignoring or dismissing the prompt does not alter your data. It simply skips the automated optimization process, leaving your file exactly as it was saved.




