How to Fix Word 365 Insert Icons Import Error
Question details
The user is unable to insert online icons in Word 365 and receives an import error message despite the software being fully updated.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to add icons to a document via the Insert > Icons menu.
- Observed behavior
- Word displays the message 'An error occurred while importing this file' and fails to insert the selected icon.
Ensure your device is connected to a stable internet connection, as Word 365 requires online access to download icons from Microsoft's cloud servers.
Wait for Server Resolution and Report Feedback
Because icons are hosted on Microsoft's online services, temporary server outages can cause import errors. Wait a short period and report the issue to Microsoft if it persists.
The Insert Icons feature relies on Microsoft's cloud infrastructure. When the servers are experiencing heavy traffic or maintenance, the files cannot be downloaded to your local document, triggering the import error.
Close the icon insertion menu and wait a few minutes or hours before trying to insert the icon again, as the online service may be temporarily unavailable.
If the issue continues after waiting, click on the 'File' tab located in the top-left corner of the Word window.
Select 'Feedback' from the bottom of the left-hand navigation pane.
Click 'Report a Problem' or 'I Don't Like Something', include the exact error message 'An error occurred while importing this file', and mention your current Office version to notify Microsoft.
Use Local Images as an Alternative
If you need an icon immediately while the server is down, download a free icon from the web and insert it as a local picture.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Creation
If you frequently encounter online service errors in Microsoft Word, consider switching to WPS Office. It's a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative that offers reliable document editing, rich local shapes, and offline functionality without frustrating connectivity interruptions.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website to download and install WPS Office for free.
- 2. Open your document: Launch WPS Writer and seamlessly open your existing Word (.docx) documents.
- 3. Add graphics easily: Use the Insert tab to easily add local shapes, icons, and pictures without strictly relying on external online servers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Word 365 say 'An error occurred while importing this file' for icons?
This error usually means Microsoft's online icon or image service is temporarily down, preventing Word from downloading the selected icon file to your document.
Can a firewall or antivirus block Word from inserting icons?
Yes, strict firewall or third-party antivirus network settings can block Microsoft Office from connecting to the internet. Ensure that Word is allowed through your firewall to access online services.
Does this error affect other Microsoft Office applications?
Yes. Because Excel and PowerPoint use the exact same online services for inserting icons and stock images, a server outage will likely cause the same import error in those applications.
Do I need an internet connection to use the Insert Icons feature?
Yes, the Insert Icons feature in Office 365 requires an active internet connection to browse the library and download the SVG icon files from Microsoft's cloud servers.
