Office Settings & Configuration

How to Fix the Stock Images Service Failed Error in Microsoft Word

Phi Hung Vo Oct 20, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to insert stock images in Microsoft Word due to a service failure error.

How to Fix the Stock Images Service Failed Error in Microsoft Word

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to browse and insert a stock image into a Word document.
Observed behavior: Microsoft Word displays the error message 'Stock images service failed. Please try again' instead of loading the online stock image library.

Before you start

Ensure your computer has an active, stable internet connection, as Microsoft Word requires online access to fetch stock images from its servers.

Solution 1Recommended

Adjust Internet Options Security Settings

Modifying specific internet security settings can resolve connection blocks that prevent Word from downloading stock images.

Microsoft Word relies on Windows Internet settings to securely download online content. Overly strict security configurations can mistakenly block the stock images service from loading.

Open Internet Options

Click the Windows Start menu, type 'Internet Options' into the search bar, and press Enter to open the Internet Properties window.

Navigate to the Advanced Tab

Click on the 'Advanced' tab located at the top right of the Internet Properties window.

Modify Security Configurations

Scroll down the settings list to find the 'Security' section. Uncheck the box next to 'Do not save encrypted pages to disk'. Then, locate and uncheck 'Block unsecured images with other mixed content' if it is enabled.

Apply Changes and Restart Word

Click 'Apply' and then 'OK' to save your new settings. Close Microsoft Word completely and reopen your document to try inserting a stock image again.

Adjust Internet Options Security Settings

Microsoft Service Bug: If the error persists after applying these changes, it may be a known Microsoft service bug. In this case, you will need to wait for a service-side fix or an official Office update from Microsoft.

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Use WPS Office to Seamlessly Edit Documents and Insert Images

If Microsoft Word's stock image service remains broken due to a known bug, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, free alternative with excellent document editing tools and high compatibility with all your existing Word files.

Easily insert local and online images into your documents without service interruptions.Fully compatible with Microsoft Word formats (.doc, .docx) to ensure a smooth transition.Lightweight software that loads quickly and consumes minimal system resources.Familiar user interface so you can start working immediately without a steep learning curve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Word say 'Stock images service failed'?

This error usually occurs due to overly strict Internet security settings blocking the download of encrypted or mixed content. It can also be caused by temporary server outages or known bugs on Microsoft's end.

Can I still insert my own images if the stock images service fails?

Yes, you can still insert images saved on your computer. Go to the Insert tab, select Pictures, and choose 'This Device' to browse and upload your local image files.

How do I update Microsoft Word to fix known bugs?

To update Word, open any document, click on File, select Account, click on Update Options, and choose 'Update Now'. This will download and install any pending fixes for known service bugs.

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