Fix Access 365 ACCDE Error After Version 2206 Office Update
Question details
Users are unable to open ACCDE files compiled in Access 2013 using Access 365 or Access 2019 after installing the Version 2206 update.

- Product
- Microsoft Access 365 / Access 2019
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Launching an ACCDE database file that relies on a splash form for its startup display.
- Observed behavior
- The ACCDE file fails to open or produces an error in Build 15330.20246, whereas the uncompiled ACCDB version works perfectly fine.
Ensure you have administrative privileges to modify your Office installation via the command prompt, and verify that you have access to the original uncompiled ACCDB file.
Roll Back Office to Build 15330.20230
Revert your Microsoft Office installation to the previous functional build to bypass the compatibility issue caused by the Version 2206 update.
Since the error is directly tied to a specific defect in Version 2206 (Build 15330.20246) involving splash forms, rolling back to the previous build acts as a highly effective temporary workaround until Microsoft pushes a permanent fix.
Open Microsoft Access, navigate to File > Account, click on Update Options, and select 'Disable Updates' to prevent Office from immediately reinstalling the problematic version.
Click the Windows Start menu, type 'cmd', right-click on 'Command Prompt', and select 'Run as administrator'.
Type 'cd %programfiles%\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\ClickToRun' and press Enter.
Type 'officec2rclient.exe /update user updatetoversion=16.0.15330.20230' and press Enter. An Office update dialog will appear to download and apply the older version.

Recompile the ACCDE File in the Target Access Version
Open the original ACCDB file in your current version of Access 365 or Access 2019 and recompile it to ensure compatibility with the updated environment.
Install the Latest Office Update
Check for and install newer Office builds that may contain the official patch for this Access bug.
Looking for a Stable Office Alternative? Try WPS Office
While Microsoft Access handles complex databases, unexpected compatibility issues during Office updates can disrupt your overall productivity. For your everyday document, spreadsheet, and presentation needs, WPS Office offers a highly stable, lightweight, and free alternative that keeps your workflow moving without disruptive patches.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded executable file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
- 3. Open and edit your files: Launch WPS Office to immediately open, edit, and save your existing Office documents seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an ACCDB and ACCDE file?
An ACCDB file is the fully editable Access database format containing all design elements and source code. An ACCDE file is a compiled 'executable' version where all VBA source code is removed and locked, protecting the intellectual property and preventing users from modifying the design.
Why does a splash form cause Access 365 to crash after the Version 2206 update?
The Version 2206 update introduced a specific bug in the way Access handles the rendering and initialization of startup display forms (splash forms) inside pre-compiled databases, leading to execution failures.
Can I edit an ACCDE file directly to fix errors?
No, an ACCDE file cannot be modified. To fix errors or make design changes, you must open the original ACCDB file, apply your changes, and then compile it again into a new ACCDE file.
How do I prevent Microsoft Office from automatically updating?
Open any Office application (like Access, Word, or Excel), go to File > Account, click on Update Options, and choose 'Disable Updates'. This stops Office from installing problematic builds until a reliable fix is verified.




