What to Do When Excel is Not Responding? Solved
Are you frustrated with an “Excel not responding” error and want a quick suggestion to fix it?
Then don’t panic, it happened due to multiple reasons. Here we will explain the possible and best ways to fix Excel not working and opening properly by opening Excel in safe mode, disabling add-ins, dividing files, repairing corrupt files, updating older versions, etc. Also, we will explore the causes and simple solutions.
Why is My Excel Not Responding?
Before starting, understand why it happens to understand the root cause of your problem.
- Large Excel Sheet: This is the most common issue with Excel files, which makes it unresponsive, slow, and freeze.
- Add-Ins: multiple users use add-ins to enhance Excel’s functionality, but sometimes they conflict and make your application freeze or become unresponsive.
- Outdated Version: Using an old version of Excel can lead to issues.
- Corrupt Excel File: This is another major issue that disturbs Excel’s performance.
What to Do When Excel is Not Responding?
Ok, after finding the root causes, let’s understand the techniques to resolve the “Excel not responding” issue one by one:
Method 1: Open Excel in Safe Mode
- Use “Win + R” or type Run in the Start menu.
- Now type “Excel.exe/safe” and hit Enter.
- Now your Excel opens in safe mode.
- Try to open your Excel file again.
Method 2: Disable Add-Ins
- Open your Excel sheet.
- Choose “File” >> “Options” >> “Add-Ins” options.
- Select the “COM Add-ins” and hit the “Go” button.
- Now, uncheck all unwanted add-ins and try to restart Excel.
Method 3: Divide the Large Excel Sheet into Smaller Parts
As we said, large files are the main reason for the “Excel not responding” error. Managing large sheets into smaller parts is the best and simplest method. Download the FreeViewer Excel Splitter Tool to manage your large file into smaller files. So, you can use only the required file whenever needed instead of opening a big file. It allows you to divide by size, rows, and sheets. You can download the trial edition for free to fix the “Excel not responding” issue.
How Does the Tool Works?
- Step 1: Install the software on your PC.
- Step 2: Hit the “Split Excel” option.
- Step 3: Add your large files/folders.
- Step 4: Choose any “Splitting” option.
- Step 5: Browse the location and choose the “Next” icon.
- Step 6: And the process is complete.
Method 4: Update Excel Version
- Open your Excel application.
- Choose “Account in Excel” from the “File” tab.
- Select the “Update Options” >> “Update Now” option.
Method 5: Repair MS Office
Corrupt and damaged Excel files make the application unstable, so repairing them can resolve the “Excel not responding” error.
- Open Control Panel.
- Choose “Programs” >> “Programs and Features” option.
- Hit on the “Microsoft Office” option.
- Select the “Change” >> “Repair” options.
Method 6: Repair Corrupted and Damaged Files
Damaged data files are another reason for the “Excel not responding” error, so there are no manual methods available to fix the corrupt file. So, you can use the FreeViewer Excel Recovery Solution. It will repair the file properly and recover complete data smoothly. It is highly suggested by experts. You can try the demo version as well for a better understanding.
After fixing the “Excel not working or responding” issue, let’s understand how to avoid the situation in the future.
How to Prevent “Excel Not Responding” Error?
- Avoid storing large datasets in a single sheet or file.
- Always update your Excel application on time.
- Don’t use unnecessary add-ins.
- And delete unwanted cells and columns regularly.
- Don’t use heavy formulas and formatting in the Excel file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques 1: Can external links make Excel unresponsive?
Ans: Yes, external links make your file unresponsive, especially if linked sources are unavailable.
Ques 2: Can too many hidden rows and columns cause Excel to lag?
Ans: Yes, hidden rows and columns consume processing power, which makes your Excel not respond.
Ques 3: Can the suggested splitting tool works with a locked Excel file?
Ans: No, it doesn’t work with a locked file. If you know the password, then first unlock it and remove protection, and if you don’t know the password, then use the FreeViewer Excel Password Recovery Tool.
Ques 4: Does the tool support extremely corrupted data files?
Ans: Yes, the suggested tool for corruption files supports all types of Excel files, including extremely corrupted ones.
Final Words
The “Excel not responding” error is a disturbing situation, but you can resolve it with the right approach. Here we have explained all possible ways with complete information, like what happens, what to do when Excel is not responding, manual techniques, and alternate solutions for large and corrupt data files. Automatic software is best, and comes with a free demo edition. So, you can use it for free, and you can contact us through live chat support for any queries.