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How to Fix Microsoft Word Stuck on Starting Add-ins Runtime
Question details
The user is unable to open or use Microsoft Word because the application is freezing during startup while attempting to load the add-ins runtime.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Launching Microsoft Word to edit or view documents when third-party or native Office add-ins are installed.
- Observed behavior
- Microsoft Word becomes unresponsive and remains completely stuck on a loading screen displaying the message that it is 'starting the add-ins runtime'.
Ensure you have closed all other running Microsoft Office applications and save your work, as you may need to restart your computer or perform an Office repair.
Disable Problematic Word Add-ins in Safe Mode
Starting Microsoft Word in Safe Mode bypasses the add-ins runtime, allowing you to manually disable the extensions causing the freeze.
Incompatible or outdated COM add-ins are the most common cause of runtime startup freezes. Disabling them helps identify the exact culprit.
Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog. Type 'winword /safe' and press Enter to open Microsoft Word without loading add-ins.
Click on 'File' in the top-left corner, select 'Options' at the bottom, and then click on 'Add-ins' in the left sidebar.
At the bottom of the window, ensure the 'Manage' dropdown is set to 'COM Add-ins', and click the 'Go...' button.
Uncheck all listed add-ins to disable them and click 'OK'. Restart Microsoft Word normally to see if the runtime message is resolved.
Run the Program Compatibility and Windows Update Troubleshooters
Using Windows' built-in troubleshooters can automatically detect and fix underlying system compatibility or update issues affecting Office.
Perform an Online Repair for Microsoft Office
If troubleshooting add-ins and system settings does not work, the Office installation files may be corrupted and require an online repair.
Switch to WPS Office for a Freeze-Free Experience
If Microsoft Word continues to freeze on the add-ins runtime message, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, fast, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office without the heavy add-in overhead.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the suite.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Writer and instantly open your existing .docx files with perfect formatting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Office Add-ins Runtime?
The Office Add-ins Runtime is a background component that supports the execution of Office web add-ins and extensions. It bridges the gap between Microsoft Word and third-party tools integrated into the application.
How do I open Word if it is completely stuck on the startup screen?
You can force Word to open by bypassing the normal startup sequence. Hold the 'CTRL' key while clicking the Word shortcut, or press Windows + R and type 'winword /safe' to launch the application in Safe Mode.
Will repairing Microsoft Office delete my personal files?
No. Running an Online Repair or Quick Repair only replaces and fixes the Microsoft Office application files. Your personal documents, spreadsheets, and presentations will remain completely unaffected.
Why do Office add-ins cause Word to freeze?
Add-ins can cause freezing if they are outdated, poorly coded, or incompatible with a recent Windows or Office update. When Word attempts to load these conflicting add-ins during startup, the runtime process hangs.
