Fix What Error Message Exc in Microsoft 365 on Windows

When Office stops working as expected, start with the shortest official checks before you reinstall anything.

Problem Description: What Error Message Exc

have installed microsoft 365 twice on Mac, however, when attempt to open word, excel, etc, it appears the system has crashed  any advice appeciated. T

Quick Answer for Office Apps Crashing Quick Fix

Launch the affected Microsoft Office application in Safe Mode to isolate potential add-in conflicts causing the EXC_CRASH (SIGABRT) error.

Likely Causes Behind Office Failure Patterns

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger office apps crashing.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Installing Office on a New PC

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. First, completely quit all running Office programs.

2. Navigate to the Applications folder in Finder, locate the specific Office app, hold down the Shift key, and double-click its icon.

3. Continue holding Shift until the application window fully appears, then release the key.

4. This startup method temporarily disables third-party add-ins and resets temporary configurations to determine if they trigger the crash.

5. Once verified, ensure that Microsoft AutoUpdate is correctly configured and actively install all pending application updates to address known stability patches and resolve underlying compatibility issues.

Alternative Solutions for Fallback Options for Office Apps Crashing

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Run Quick Repair, then Online Repair from Programs and Features if the app still fails.

4. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: Editing Files in WPS During Office Apps Crashing

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Smooth Office Device Transfers

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Document exact error messages before the next troubleshooting attempt.

FAQs About Office Apps Crashing Help Topics

Can WPS Office fix this office apps crashing issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Office before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.