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Fix Microsoft AutoUpdate Stuck on Installation in Progress on Mac
Question details
The user needs to resolve an issue where the Microsoft AutoUpdate tool freezes during an update process and prevents the Mac from restarting normally.
- Product
- Microsoft AutoUpdate for Mac
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- The system attempts to apply an automatic background update to Microsoft Office applications, but the update hangs indefinitely.
- Observed behavior
- An 'Install in Progress' window gets stuck on the screen and returns even after force quitting, preventing the Mac from performing a normal restart.
Before proceeding, ensure you have saved all open documents in your Office applications and have your Mac connected to a stable internet connection for downloading fresh installation files.
Manually Uninstall and Reinstall Microsoft AutoUpdate
Removing the corrupted AutoUpdate application from your system and downloading the latest version directly from Microsoft is the most effective way to break the infinite installation loop.
Often, the update files become corrupted in the background. Force quitting does not remove these broken files, so manually deleting the updater tool is necessary.
Press Command + Option + Esc, select Microsoft AutoUpdate from the list of active applications, and click 'Force Quit'.
Open Finder, press Command + Shift + G to open the 'Go to Folder' window, and type '/Library/Application Support/Microsoft/' to locate the MAU2.0 folder.
Find the Microsoft AutoUpdate app inside the folder, drag it to your Trash, and empty the Trash.
Visit the official Microsoft release history page for Office for Mac, download the latest standalone Microsoft AutoUpdate package, and run the installer.
Verify the Privileged Helper Tool
Microsoft AutoUpdate relies on a background helper tool to execute installations. If this tool is missing or damaged, updates will hang.
Perform a Clean Reinstallation of Office for Mac
If fixing the AutoUpdate tool directly does not work, the core Microsoft Office installation may be corrupted and requires a clean reinstall.
Switch to WPS Office for a Seamless Mac Experience
If Microsoft AutoUpdate continues to freeze your system and disrupt your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a reliable, lightweight office suite that does not rely on intrusive background updaters, keeping your Mac running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft AutoUpdate keep popping up on my Mac?
Microsoft AutoUpdate runs automatically in the background to ensure your Office applications receive the latest security patches and features. If it repeatedly pops up without finishing, the app or its background helper tool may be corrupted.
Will deleting Microsoft AutoUpdate erase my Word or Excel documents?
No. Deleting or uninstalling the Microsoft AutoUpdate application only removes the updater program. Your personal files, Word documents, and Excel spreadsheets remain completely safe on your Mac.
How do I stop Microsoft AutoUpdate from running automatically?
Open any Office application like Word, click 'Help' in the top Apple menu bar, and select 'Check for Updates'. When the AutoUpdate window opens, uncheck the box labeled 'Automatically keep Microsoft Apps up to date' to switch to manual updates.
