Fix Office 2021 Cannot Disable Backstage View When Opening Files
Question details
Users are unable to bypass the Backstage view when clicking the Open command from the Quick Access Toolbar, even when the setting to hide it is enabled.
- Product
- Microsoft Office 2021
- Device & OS
- Windows 10 / Windows 11
- Scenario
- Attempting to open files directly via a standard Windows file dialog using the Quick Access Toolbar.
- Observed behavior
- The Open button on the Quick Access Toolbar still forces the Backstage view to open, while the Save As button correctly opens the standard file dialog.
Ensure your Microsoft Office 2021 suite is fully updated to the latest version, as this could be a known bug resolved in recent cumulative patches.
Verify Save Options and Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Double-check the core settings in the Office application and test keyboard shortcuts to bypass the Quick Access Toolbar bug.
In some builds of Office 2021, the Quick Access Toolbar button for 'Open' ignores user preferences. Relying on the keyboard shortcut often respects the application's configuration correctly.
Open your Office 2021 application (like Word or Excel), click on File in the top ribbon, and select Options at the bottom left.
Click on the Save tab in the left pane. Check the box that says 'Don't show the Backstage when opening or saving files with keyboard shortcuts' and click OK.
Instead of clicking the Open icon on the Quick Access Toolbar, press Ctrl + O on your keyboard. This should successfully bypass the Backstage view and launch the standard file explorer dialog.
Test in Safe Mode and Check Add-ins
Determine if a third-party add-in or corrupted template is overriding your file opening preferences.
Tired of Microsoft Office 2021 Interface Bugs? Try WPS Office
If persistent UI glitches like the forced Backstage view in Office 2021 interrupt your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a highly compatible, streamlined experience that lets you access local files instantly without navigating through unnecessary menus.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installer for Windows.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Set as Default Application: Set WPS Office as your default program to instantly open Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without workflow interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Save As button skip the Backstage view but Open does not?
In certain Office 2021 builds, the Quick Access Toolbar commands are mapped inconsistently. The Save As command natively respects the 'Don't show Backstage' setting, but the Open command may ignore it due to a known Microsoft interface glitch.
Does the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+O still open the Backstage view?
Usually, no. If the 'Don't show the Backstage...' option is enabled in File > Options > Save, pressing Ctrl + O will successfully bypass the Backstage view and open the standard Windows file explorer dialog.
Can Windows group policies affect the Backstage view settings in Office 2021?
Yes. If you are using a company-managed computer, IT administrators might enforce Group Policies that override your local user settings, forcing the Backstage view to remain active regardless of your personal application preferences.
