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How to Fix Microsoft Word 'This App Cannot Run on Your PC' Error
Question details
The user is unable to launch Microsoft Word due to an error stating the app cannot run on their PC, and existing document files appear to have changed formats or associations to DOCX.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- Windows PC
- Scenario
- Attempting to open the Microsoft Word desktop application or launching existing documents.
- Observed behavior
- Windows displays a 'This app cannot run on your PC' error message, preventing Word from opening, and documents are opening incorrectly as web files instead of launching in the desktop app.
Before making any changes to your applications or system settings, ensure you back up your important documents to an external drive or cloud storage to prevent any accidental data loss during the repair process.
Repair the Microsoft 365 Installation
Use the built-in Windows repair tool to fix corrupted Microsoft Office files that are causing the application launch error.
A corrupted Microsoft 365 installation is the most common cause for apps failing to run. Windows provides a built-in Online Repair tool that can download and replace missing or broken application files without affecting your personal documents.
Click the Start menu and select the gear icon, or press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open Windows Settings.
Click on 'Apps' in the left-hand menu, then select 'Installed apps' (or 'Apps & features' in older Windows versions).
Scroll down or search to find 'Microsoft 365' or 'Microsoft Office'. Click the three dots next to it and select 'Modify'.
When the repair window appears, select 'Online Repair' and click the 'Repair' button. Wait for the process to complete, then restart your PC and try opening Word again.
Restore Word Desktop Application as Default for DOCX
Fix file association issues that might be redirecting your local documents to Word for the web or an incompatible program.
Verify Architecture and Reinstall Microsoft 365
Resolve compatibility issues by ensuring you are running the correct 32-bit or 64-bit version of Microsoft 365 for your Windows operating system.
Switch to WPS Office to Open DOCX Files Instantly
If Microsoft Word continues to show errors or fails to run on your PC, WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and fast alternative. It features a familiar interface, seamlessly handles your existing DOCX files without any formatting loss, and runs perfectly on all Windows PCs.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for Windows.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the quick on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Double-click any of your DOCX files to automatically open, view, and edit them directly in WPS Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my PC say 'This app cannot run on your PC' when opening Word?
This error typically occurs due to corrupted Microsoft Office installation files, pending or broken Windows updates, or a mismatch between the 32-bit/64-bit versions of Windows and the installed Office suite.
How do I stop my documents from opening in Word for the web?
You need to restore your default file associations. Right-click any DOCX file, select 'Open with' > 'Choose another app', pick the Microsoft Word desktop application, check the box that says 'Always use this app', and click OK.
Are my documents deleted if Microsoft Word won't open?
No, your documents are completely safe and stored on your hard drive or OneDrive. The error only prevents the application from launching. You can still access and edit your files using alternative software like WPS Office.
