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How to Fix Microsoft Privacy Window Won't Close on Mac
Question details
Users are unable to close the 'Microsoft respects your privacy' dialog on a Mac because the Accept button is cut off or hidden off-screen.
- Product
- Microsoft Office for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Opening a Microsoft Office application for the first time or after a software update.
- Observed behavior
- The privacy and license window is too large for the screen display, hiding the Accept button and preventing the user from closing the dialog or using the application.
Save any open work in other applications, as changing your Mac's display resolution will momentarily refresh and reorganize your desktop.
Adjust Mac Display Resolution to Reveal the Accept Button
Change the display scaling to make everything on screen smaller, allowing the entire privacy window and its Accept button to fit inside your screen.
The Microsoft privacy window has fixed dimensions that may exceed the vertical space of smaller MacBook screens, especially if the display is set to show larger text. By temporarily switching to a higher resolution (scaling down), you can expose the hidden elements at the bottom of the window.
Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select 'System Settings' (or 'System Preferences' on older macOS versions).
Scroll down the left sidebar and click on 'Displays' to access your monitor settings.
Under the Resolution section, select 'More Space' or choose a higher scaled resolution to make on-screen elements smaller.
Return to the Microsoft privacy window, click the newly visible 'Accept' button at the bottom right, and then revert your Mac display settings to their original state.
Switch to WPS Office for a Seamless, Lightweight Mac Experience
Tired of bulky software and frustrating display glitches? WPS Office offers a free, lightweight alternative that is highly compatible with Microsoft Office formats, featuring a clean interface optimized for Mac screens of all sizes.
- 1. Download the Mac version: Go to the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for macOS.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Open the downloaded .dmg file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Open your files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Microsoft Office files without any conversion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Microsoft privacy window so large on my Mac?
This usually happens when your Mac's display resolution is set to a scaled option for larger text, or if you are using a 13-inch MacBook screen that doesn't natively fit the fixed, un-resizable dimensions of the Microsoft dialog box.
Can I bypass the 'Microsoft respects your privacy' screen?
No, Microsoft requires users to accept these privacy terms before using their Office applications. You must find a way to click the Accept button at least once.
What should I do if the Accept button is still hidden after changing resolution?
Try clicking inside the privacy window and pressing the Tab key repeatedly to cycle through the buttons until you think the unseen Accept button is highlighted, then press Return or Enter. Alternatively, connect an external monitor with a higher resolution.
Will I have to change my display resolution every time I open Word or Excel?
No. The privacy prompt is typically a one-time requirement per installation. Once you accept the terms, you can safely revert your Mac to its preferred display settings and use the applications normally.
