Office Windows Explorer Creates New Workbooks Error: Step-by-Step

If your workflow is blocked, confirm the account and app context, then follow the ordered fixes below.

Problem Description: Language Xcel

All of my Xcel worksheets are in some other language, not English. How did this happen?

Quick Answer for Office Settings Quick Fix

Excel worksheets displaying in a non-English language may be due to multiple language packs.

Likely Causes Behind Office Failure Patterns

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger office settings & configuration.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Transferring Office License Safely

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. Windows Explorer creates new workbooks from a default Excel12.xlsx in the SHELLNEW folder, which may have a different language name.

2. Replace the original Excel12.xlsx in the SHELLNEW folder with a workbook created in your desired language.

3. The folder path is C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\vfs\Windows\SHELLNEW for 32-bit Office on 64-bit Windows, or C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\vfs\Windows\SHELLNEW for 64-bit installations.

Alternative Solutions for Fallback Options for Office Settings

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Run Quick Repair, then Online Repair from Programs and Features if the app still fails.

4. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: Editing Files in WPS During Office Settings

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Smooth Office Device Transfers

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Document exact error messages before the next troubleshooting attempt.

FAQs About Office Settings Help Topics

Can WPS Office fix this office settings & configuration issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Office before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.