Why the Excel Ribbon is Not Green After an Office Update
Question details
Users report that the Microsoft Excel application tab is no longer green following a recent update.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Opening and using Excel after automatically or manually installing the latest Microsoft Office update.
- Observed behavior
- The Excel ribbon or top application tab loses its traditional green branding, while other applications like PowerPoint still retain their typical colors.
Check your Microsoft Office account settings to confirm if you are using Microsoft 365 or a standalone version like Office 2019, as this visual change primarily affects Microsoft 365 subscribers.
Keep Microsoft Office Updated
Since this color change is a known Microsoft 365 update behavior, the best approach is to ensure automatic updates are enabled to receive any future design reversions.
Microsoft is aware of the user feedback regarding the missing green branding in Excel. Because this is related to a recent Microsoft 365 update rather than an application crash or bug, no immediate user action is strictly required. Your workbooks will continue to function normally.
Launch Microsoft Excel, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Account' from the left-hand menu.
Under the 'Product Information' section, click on the 'Update Options' button.
Select 'Update Now' from the drop-down menu. Excel will check for and install any newly released patches that may restore the original ribbon color.
Verify Your Office Theme Settings
Switching your Office Theme back to 'Colorful' can sometimes restore application-specific branding on the ribbon.
Try WPS Office for a Consistent and Familiar Spreadsheet Experience
If unexpected UI changes and missing colors in Microsoft 365 are disrupting your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a stable, highly compatible, and free alternative with a familiar interface that won't confuse you after updates.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen prompts to set up the software on your computer.
- 3. Open WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and immediately start creating or editing your existing .xlsx files with a familiar, stable interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the missing green ribbon mean my Excel is corrupted?
No, this is purely a visual design change or temporary bug introduced in a recent Microsoft 365 update. Your Excel application is not corrupted, and your spreadsheet data remains completely safe and functional.
Can I manually change the ribbon color back to green?
You cannot pick a custom color specifically for the Excel ribbon. However, you can go to File > Options > General, and ensure your 'Office Theme' is set to 'Colorful' to see if it restores the default application branding.
Is this issue affecting Office 2019 or older versions?
Current reports indicate that this UI change primarily affects Microsoft 365 subscribers. Users on standalone, perpetual license versions like Office 2019 typically retain the traditional green ribbon.
Will Microsoft fix the Excel ribbon color in the future?
Microsoft is aware of user reports regarding this visual change. It is highly recommended to keep your Office applications updated via File > Account > Update Options, as future patches may address the interface design.
