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How to Fix Office Apps Not Working on Windows 10 Version 1507
Question details
The user is unable to use Microsoft Office applications due to compatibility issues with an obsolete Windows operating system.
- Product
- Microsoft Office
- Device & OS
- Windows 10 Version 1507
- Scenario
- Attempting to run modern Office applications on an unsupported, legacy version of Windows 10.
- Observed behavior
- Office applications stop working, fail to launch, or crash unexpectedly because Windows 10 version 1507 lacks the necessary updates and framework to support current Office versions.
Verify your current Windows version by pressing Win + R, typing 'winver', and pressing Enter. Ensure your device meets the hardware requirements for newer Windows 10 updates before attempting an OS upgrade.
Update Windows 10 to a Supported Release
Updating your operating system is the most effective way to restore compatibility, as Windows 10 version 1507 is obsolete and no longer supported by newer Office releases.
Microsoft periodically ends support for older versions of Windows 10. Once a version reaches end-of-life, it no longer receives compatibility updates for modern applications like Microsoft Office. Upgrading to the latest Windows 10 feature update will resolve core compatibility issues.
Click the Start button, then click the gear icon to open Settings. Alternatively, press the Windows Key + I on your keyboard.
Click on 'Update & Security', then select 'Windows Update' from the left-hand menu.
Click the 'Check for updates' button. Allow Windows to download and install any available feature updates to bring your PC to a supported version.
Once Windows is updated and restarted, open any Office app, go to File > Account > Update Options, and select 'Update Now'.
Run Office in Safe Mode and Disable Add-ins
If updating Windows is not immediately possible, launching Office in Safe Mode can help bypass plugin conflicts that cause the apps to crash.
Run an Office Repair
Corrupted Office installation files can also cause applications to stop working. The built-in repair tool can automatically fix these issues.
Use WPS Office on Older Windows Devices
If your device hardware prevents you from updating Windows 10 version 1507, running modern Microsoft Office versions may be impossible. WPS Office is a lightweight, highly compatible alternative that runs smoothly on older hardware and legacy operating systems without sacrificing functionality.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install on Windows: Run the downloaded setup file and follow the quick installation instructions on your older Windows 10 device.
- 3. Open Your Files Seamlessly: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Microsoft Office documents without worrying about compatibility errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft Office say my Windows version is unsupported?
Windows 10 version 1507 is the initial release of Windows 10 from 2015. Microsoft has ended support for this version, meaning it no longer receives security updates or compatibility patches required by newer versions of Microsoft Office.
Can I still use my Office software if I cannot update Windows 10?
If you cannot update Windows due to hardware limitations, modern Office 365 or Office 2021 apps may completely stop working. You would need to use an older, legacy version of Office (like Office 2013) or switch to a lightweight alternative like WPS Office.
How do I update my graphics drivers to stop Office from crashing?
Right-click the Start menu and select 'Device Manager'. Expand 'Display adapters', right-click your graphics card, and choose 'Update driver'. Select 'Search automatically for drivers' to install the latest version.
Will I lose my files if I switch to a different Office suite?
No. Your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations are saved locally on your computer or in the cloud. You can easily open and edit them using compatible alternative software like WPS Office.
