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How to Fix Mendeley Word Plugin Click-to-Run Compatibility Errors
Question details
The user needs to resolve an error stating that the Office Click-to-Run version is unsupported when attempting to use the legacy Mendeley Word plugin.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Inserting citations using the legacy Mendeley plugin in a modern Microsoft 365 environment.
- Observed behavior
- The plugin fails to load or function, throwing a compatibility error that the current Microsoft Office Click-to-Run installation is unsupported.
Verify your Microsoft Word installation type by opening Word, clicking on 'File', and selecting 'Account' to see if 'Click-to-Run' is listed under the About Word section.
Migrate to the Modern Mendeley Cite Add-in
Use Mendeley Cite, the official and modern replacement for the legacy plugin, which is fully compatible with Microsoft 365 Click-to-Run versions.
The legacy Mendeley Word plugin was designed for older MSI-based Office installations. Because Microsoft 365 exclusively uses the Click-to-Run architecture, the old plugin can no longer communicate properly with Word. Mendeley Cite is the updated solution that works seamlessly with modern Office versions.
Launch Microsoft Word, navigate to the 'Insert' tab on the top ribbon, and click on 'Get Add-ins' to open the Office Store.
In the Office Add-ins window, type 'Mendeley Cite' into the search bar and press Enter.
Click the 'Add' button next to Mendeley Cite. Once installed, open the add-in from the 'References' tab and sign in with your Mendeley credentials to access your library.
Consult the Microsoft Q&A Community
Seek specialized assistance for Click-to-Run registry workarounds or specific Office build compatibility from Microsoft experts.
Contact Mendeley Support
Check directly with Mendeley Support to confirm if your specific legacy plugin version has any available patches.
Experience Hassle-Free Document Editing with WPS Office
If Microsoft 365's Click-to-Run updates and plugin compatibility issues are disrupting your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and user-friendly environment for all your document, spreadsheet, and presentation needs.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up the suite on your device.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Writer and seamlessly open your existing .docx files to continue working immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Click-to-Run version unsupported' mean?
This error means that the legacy Mendeley Word plugin was programmed to work with older, MSI-based installers of Microsoft Office. It lacks the modern architecture required to integrate with Microsoft's current Click-to-Run streaming installations used in Microsoft 365.
Will buying a standalone Office license fix the Mendeley error?
No, purchasing a one-time license such as Office 2019 or Office 2021 will likely not solve the issue. Microsoft has transitioned almost all modern Office products to the Click-to-Run deployment method.
Can I have both Mendeley Cite and the legacy plugin installed?
While it is technically possible, it is highly recommended to uninstall the legacy plugin before using Mendeley Cite to prevent conflicts within Microsoft Word and ensure your citations update correctly.
