Update & Upgrade Problems

How to Fix Microsoft Office Error 44 During an Update

Amos Gikunda Oct 10, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user is unable to update their Microsoft 365 or Office applications due to Error 44.

How to Fix Microsoft Office Error 44 During an Update

Product: Microsoft Office
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to download and install updates for Microsoft Office applications.
Observed behavior: The update process fails to complete, returning an Error 44 prompt that blocks the installation of new features and security patches.

Before you start

Before beginning the troubleshooting process, ensure you have a stable internet connection and save all open documents, as you may need to restart your Office applications or your computer.

Solution 1Recommended

Manually Trigger the Office Update

Force the update process directly through the built-in Office application settings to bypass background update errors.

Sometimes automated background updates fail due to temporary network glitches or service conflicts. Manually triggering the update from within an Office application can often resolve the issue.

Open an Office Application

Launch Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint and create a new blank document.

Navigate to Account Settings

Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of the window, then select 'Account' (or 'Office Account' if you are using Outlook) from the bottom of the left-hand menu.

Run the Update

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

Update Successful: If the process completes without the Error 44 prompt, your Office suite is now fully up to date.

Solution 2

Run an Online Repair for Microsoft Office

Use the Windows repair utility to fix corrupted Office installation files that might be causing the update failure.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office to Avoid Frustrating Update Errors

If Microsoft Office update errors persist and disrupt your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a free, lightweight alternative that installs quickly and updates seamlessly, letting you focus on your work instead of troubleshooting.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free, lightweight installer.
2. Install in Minutes: Run the setup file. The streamlined installation process takes only a few minutes and avoids the bloatware of traditional suites.
3. Open Your Existing Files: Launch WPS Office and open your Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files directly; perfect formatting retention ensures you can pick up exactly where you left off.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats like .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Lightweight installation with zero complex background update errors.Familiar and intuitive user interface for a seamless migration.Built-in PDF reader and editor for complete document management.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Error 44 in Microsoft Office?

Error 44 typically occurs due to unstable network connections during an update, corrupted installation files, or conflicts with Windows background update services.

Will running an Online Repair delete my Word or Excel files?

No, running an Online Repair or Quick Repair only fixes and replaces the application files for Microsoft Office. Your personal documents, spreadsheets, and presentations remain completely safe and untouched.

How do I check my current Office version and update channel?

Open any Office application, go to File > Account, and check the 'Product Information' section. Your Office edition, version number, build number, and current update channel will be displayed there.

Installation & Activation