Fix Excel Crashes When Opening SharePoint Files After Update
Question details
Users need to resolve frequent application crashes occurring when attempting to open files from SharePoint or save workbooks after updating their software.

- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Opening files hosted on SharePoint or saving local workbooks in a corporate environment.
- Observed behavior
- Excel unexpectedly crashes during standard file operations, specifically affecting users on the Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel after installing version 15601.20578.
Verify your current Microsoft Office version number in the Account settings to confirm if you are running the affected build before attempting any updates.
Update to the Latest Office Build
Microsoft releases subsequent patches to fix known bugs in previous builds. Updating to the newest Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel release resolves the crashing issue.
This crash is a known bug tied to Microsoft 365 Apps version 15601.20578. Moving to a newer verified build, such as 15601.20626 or higher, restores stability when syncing with SharePoint.
Launch Microsoft Excel and click on 'File' in the top-left corner, then select 'Account' from the bottom of the left-hand menu.
Locate the 'Office Updates' section on the right side of the screen and click on the 'Update Options' button.
Select 'Update Now' from the dropdown menu to force Excel to check for and install the latest available version.
Contact IT for Managed Software Updates
If your organization manages updates via Software Center, you cannot manually update Excel and must request an IT deployment.
Use WPS Office to Seamlessly Handle Cloud Workbooks
Since this crashing issue is tied to a specific Microsoft 365 update bug, consider using WPS Office. It provides a highly stable, lightweight, and free alternative that flawlessly handles complex spreadsheets without frequent update disruptions.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download the free office suite.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your computer.
- 3. Open Your Spreadsheets: Open your existing .xlsx files directly in WPS Spreadsheet and continue your work without crashing interruptions.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Excel crash when I save to SharePoint?
This is often caused by a software bug in specific Office builds, such as version 15601.20578. The application fails to communicate correctly with SharePoint services, triggering a fatal crash.
How can I check my current Excel version and build number?
Open Excel, click on 'File' in the top left, select 'Account' from the bottom left menu, and look under the 'About Excel' section to find your exact Version and Build number.
What is the Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel?
It is an update channel for Microsoft 365 Apps designed for organizations that prefer to deploy new features to users twice a year rather than monthly, theoretically prioritizing long-term stability.
Can I roll back to a previous version of Excel if it keeps crashing?
Yes, it is possible to revert to an earlier build using the Office Deployment Tool, but it usually requires administrative privileges. In a corporate environment, you will typically need to ask your IT department to perform the rollback.




