Fix Office 365 Update Causes Window in Office 365 on Windows

When Office 365 stops working as expected, start with the shortest official checks before you reinstall anything.

Problem Description: Office 365 Update Causes

I am running Sequoia 15.7.2 and my Excel/Word is 15.38. When I try to update I simply get "update error" "some apps have encountered errors". I renewed my subscription on October 1 2025. Would love my excel to no longer be upside down forcing me to scroll down and then back up to flip correctly

Quick Answer for Office 365 Setup on New Device

Ignore the update error if your Mac isn't compatible with the latest Office version; install a specific version instead.

Likely Causes Behind Update Root Factors

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger update & upgrade problems.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Installing Office 365 on a New PC

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. Download and install Office 16.90.24101387 from the provided link, ensuring all Office apps are closed first.

2. After installation, ignore any auto-update prompts and keep version 16.90 to resolve the issue.

3. If problems persist, provide your Mac OS version for further troubleshooting.

Alternative Solutions for Secondary Installation Fixes

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Run Quick Repair, then Online Repair from Programs and Features if the app still fails.

4. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: WPS as a Local Alternative

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Keeping Office 365 Stable Long Term

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Buy Office from official channels and record the redemption account.

FAQs About Office 365 Support Questions

Can WPS Office fix this update & upgrade problems issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Office 365 before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.