How to Fix Microsoft Office Error 0xc0000142 When Excel and Word Won't Open
Question details
The user is unable to open Excel and Word files after a Microsoft Office update, often encountering error code 0xc0000142 or other startup errors.
- Product
- Microsoft Office
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to open Word documents or Excel spreadsheets after installing a recent Microsoft Office update.
- Observed behavior
- The Office applications fail to launch, displaying error 0xc0000142 or similar startup errors, making the files inaccessible locally.
Log into your personal OneDrive account through a web browser to verify that your documents and spreadsheets are still safely accessible online before altering your desktop installation.
Uninstall and Reinstall Microsoft Office
The most effective way to resolve update-related corruption and error 0xc0000142 is to completely reinstall Microsoft Office from your linked account.
Sometimes, background updates can corrupt the core installation files of Microsoft Office. Reinstalling the suite directly from your linked Microsoft account ensures you have a clean, working version that bypasses the broken update files.
Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open Settings, then navigate to 'Apps' and select 'Apps & features' or 'Installed apps'.
Scroll down the list to find your Microsoft Office installation, click on the three dots (or select the app), and choose 'Uninstall'.
Open your web browser and sign in to the Microsoft account that is linked to your active Office license at account.microsoft.com.
Navigate to the 'Services & subscriptions' section, locate your Office product, and click 'Install' to download and run the fresh setup file.
Run the Office Repair Tool
Before fully reinstalling, you can try repairing the Office installation directly from Windows settings to fix minor update glitches.
Use WPS Office to Open Your Files While Fixing Microsoft Error 0xc0000142
If Microsoft Office updates are preventing you from accessing your important work, switch to WPS Office. It is a free, lightweight alternative that lets you open, edit, and save Word and Excel files instantly without dealing with complex installation errors.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the lightweight installer, which sets up in minutes without complex configurations.
- 3. Open Your Files: Simply double-click or drag your existing Word or Excel files into WPS Office to continue working immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does error 0xc0000142 mean in Microsoft Office?
Error 0xc0000142 typically indicates that the application was unable to start correctly. In Microsoft Office, this often happens when installation files become corrupted or misconfigured during an automatic background update.
Will I lose my Excel and Word files if I uninstall Microsoft Office?
No, uninstalling Microsoft Office only removes the application files from your computer. Your personal documents, spreadsheets, and files saved on your hard drive or in OneDrive will remain completely intact and accessible.
How do I check if my Office license is linked to my Microsoft account?
Go to account.microsoft.com and sign in with your credentials. Navigate to the 'Services & subscriptions' tab. If your license is linked, you will see your Office product listed there along with an option to install it.
Why are my files opening in OneDrive but not on my desktop?
OneDrive uses Office Online, which runs in your web browser and is not affected by local desktop application errors like 0xc0000142. This confirms your files are safe and accessible while you troubleshoot your local desktop installation.
