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Fix "Things Do Not Appear to Be Working" Microsoft 365 Subscription Error
Question details
The user is unable to complete a Microsoft 365 subscription purchase due to a recurrent website error.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Attempting to purchase, renew, or activate a Microsoft 365 subscription through the official website.
- Observed behavior
- The web page fails to process the request and displays an error message stating "Things don't appear to be working at the moment."
Verify that your internet connection is stable and ensure that your local network or VPN is not blocking Microsoft's payment gateway domains.
Use an Incognito Window or Alternative Browser
Switching to a private browsing session bypasses corrupted cookies and extensions that might be interfering with the payment process.
Browser extensions, especially ad-blockers or privacy shields, can occasionally block the scripts required for Microsoft's subscription checkout to load properly. Using an Incognito or InPrivate window loads the page without these extensions.
In Google Chrome, press Ctrl + Shift + N. If you are using Microsoft Edge, press Ctrl + Shift + N to open an InPrivate window.
Go to the official Microsoft 365 subscription page within the newly opened private window.
Log into your Microsoft account and try completing the subscription process.
Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies
Removing stored site data resolves conflicts caused by outdated or corrupted session tokens from previous visits.
Wait and Contact Microsoft Support
When server-side outages occur, waiting out the issue or contacting support is necessary.
Skip the Subscription Hassles with WPS Office
If Microsoft 365 subscription errors are holding up your productivity, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a comprehensive, lightweight, and completely free alternative without the headache of managing monthly payments or subscription portals.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and click the free download button for Windows.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents with perfect formatting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Microsoft website say things aren't working right now?
This generic error is usually triggered by browser cache conflicts, active ad-blocker extensions, network connectivity drops, or temporary server outages on Microsoft's payment portal.
Can I subscribe to Microsoft 365 using a different device?
Yes. If your Windows 10 PC keeps throwing the error, try accessing the Microsoft 365 subscription page from a smartphone or tablet connected to a different network (like mobile data) to bypass local network issues.
Is there a way to use Office software without buying a subscription?
Yes, you can use highly compatible free office suites like WPS Office, which provides Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and PDF editing features without requiring any subscription or payment.
