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How to Stop Office for Mac from Requiring Restarts After Updates
Question details
The user wants to prevent Microsoft Office for Mac from repeatedly prompting them to restart their applications following background updates.
- Product
- Microsoft Office for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Working in Office applications while Microsoft AutoUpdate runs and applies updates in the background.
- Observed behavior
- Microsoft AutoUpdate repeatedly interrupts the user's workflow by displaying notifications that ask the user to restart their active Office applications to complete the update installation.
Before modifying your update settings, ensure you have saved all active documents, as a pending update may force a restart during the configuration process.
Disable Automatic Installation in Microsoft AutoUpdate
Change your Microsoft AutoUpdate settings so that updates are downloaded and installed only when you choose to apply them manually.
By disabling automatic installation, you regain control over when Office updates are applied. You will still be notified when new versions are available, allowing you to install them during your downtime without interrupting your workflow.
Launch any Microsoft Office application on your Mac, such as Word or Excel. From the top macOS menu bar, click on 'Help' and select 'Check for Updates'.
Once the Microsoft AutoUpdate window opens, click on the 'Advanced' button located at the bottom right corner of the window.
Locate the update options and uncheck or disable the automatic installation setting. If available, switch the selection from 'Automatically download and install' to manual checking.
Manage AutoUpdate Notifications in macOS Settings
If you prefer to keep automatic updates on but want to silence the persistent restart reminders, you can adjust your macOS notification settings.
Handle Enterprise-Managed Update Settings
For users on a company or school device, update settings may be locked by a workplace IT administrator.
Switch to WPS Office to Avoid Update Interruptions
Tired of persistent update interruptions and forced application restarts? WPS Office is a free, lightweight, and user-friendly alternative to Microsoft Office that gives you full control over your software without disruptive background updates.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for macOS.
- 2. Install the Application: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and instantly open your existing Microsoft Office documents without format loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Office for Mac constantly ask me to restart my apps?
Microsoft AutoUpdate continuously runs in the background to download new software versions. Once an update is downloaded, it cannot replace the application files while they are in use, which is why it repeatedly prompts you to restart the active apps.
Can I permanently delete Microsoft AutoUpdate?
While it is technically possible to remove the Microsoft AutoUpdate application from your Mac's Library folder, it is not recommended. Deleting it will prevent your Office applications from receiving critical security and stability updates.
Why are my Microsoft AutoUpdate Advanced settings grayed out?
If your Mac is provided by your employer or school, your IT administrator may have deployed a configuration profile that locks the update settings to enforce mandatory security patches. You will need to contact your IT department to adjust these policies.
Is it safe to turn off automatic updates for Office?
Yes, it is safe as long as you remember to manually check for updates regularly. Turning off automatic updates gives you control over when installations occur, but neglecting updates entirely can leave your system vulnerable to security risks.
