How to Fix Excel Linked Data Types Not Updating on Mac
Question details
The user is unable to refresh or retrieve linked data types such as Stocks and Currency in Excel for Mac.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Attempting to update or retrieve connected data types in an Excel workbook.
- Observed behavior
- Linked data types fail to update or fetch new data, even after basic troubleshooting like signing out, checking connected experiences, and standard reinstallation.
Ensure you have your Microsoft account login credentials handy and have backed up any customized templates or local settings, as this process involves completely removing Office files and configurations from your Mac.
Perform a Clean Reinstallation of Microsoft Office
Completely remove all Microsoft Office files, including hidden Library configurations and Launch Agents, before reinstalling from the App Store.
A standard drag-to-trash uninstall often leaves behind hidden configuration, updater, and licensing files. Removing these ensures a completely fresh setup, which resolves deep-rooted connectivity issues with Excel's linked data types.
Open Finder, go to the 'Applications' folder, and move Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, OneDrive, and other Office apps to the Trash.
Press 'Command + Shift + G' in Finder, enter '~/Library', and locate the 'Containers' and 'Group Containers' folders. Delete any folders related to 'com.microsoft' (such as UBF8T346G9.ms, com.microsoft.Excel, etc.).
Navigate to '~/Library/LaunchAgents' and '/Library/LaunchDaemons' to locate and remove any Microsoft updater or licensing agent files.
Empty the Trash and restart your Mac to clear any remaining cached processes. Then, open the Apple App Store, search for 'Microsoft Excel', and download a fresh installation.
Try WPS Office as a Lightweight, Hassle-Free Alternative
If Excel for Mac continues to have sync and update issues, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a highly compatible, lightweight, and completely free alternative for managing your spreadsheets without heavy background processes.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website or the Mac App Store to download the free WPS Office suite.
- 2. Open Your Workbooks: Launch WPS Spreadsheet, click 'Open', and select your existing .xlsx files without worrying about formatting loss.
- 3. Analyze Data: Continue working on your data seamlessly using WPS Spreadsheet's robust built-in formulas and functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Excel linked data types stop working on Mac?
This issue is often caused by corrupted local caching, conflicting licensing files, or background updater agents getting stuck. A simple reinstallation doesn't clear these hidden files, leading to persistent data retrieval errors.
Do I need an active Microsoft 365 subscription to use linked data types?
Yes, premium linked data types like Stocks and Geography require an active Microsoft 365 subscription. Ensure your account is signed in and properly licensed under 'Connected Experiences'.
Will I lose my Excel files if I completely uninstall Office on Mac?
No, uninstalling the application files and clearing the Library containers does not delete your personal workbooks or files saved on your Mac or OneDrive. However, backing up your data beforehand is highly recommended.
How do I turn off automatic updates for Office on Mac?
If you installed Office via the Mac App Store, open the App Store, go to 'Settings' (or Preferences) in the menu bar, and uncheck 'Automatic Updates'. If using Microsoft AutoUpdate, open an Office app, click 'Help' > 'Check for Updates', and turn off the automatic update toggle.
