False "No Internet Access" keeping Office apps from activating

Client who is a home user behind a Netgear router. Nothing special. 

The network status icon in the system tray says "no internet access".  1803 it had the yellow exclamation mark.  1903 it has the world symbol with a small slash mark.

Updated to 1903 in an attempt to fix. Same issue "No Internet access", yet the internet works fine. I have literally spent half a day searching the internet and trying everything I could. No luck. I'd leave it be, except MS apps really think the user is offline. Hence, a newly installed Office 2019 won't activate because it says the user is offline.

I've reset the network connection, run the troubleshooter and had it reset the networking, and almost every other solution I read about. Tried DHCP and static, DNS set to 8.8.8.8 and 192.168.1.1 (the router default config). 

I've tried disabling the NLA service and rebooting, but then Outlook sits there and won't launch, even though browsers work fine.  

Somehow, NLA and it's associated NCIS is broken somewhere, even though the 3 "tests" it makes to determine connectivity all pass when done manually.

HELP! I have until June 11th to activate Office 2019 before it goes into reduced functionality mode.

Again, this is a single home user behind a Netgear router. No proxy or VPN software. Internet Options control app show no proxy setting. Only has Windows defender. No other firewall software.

One last thing. The registry entry:

EnableActiveProbing REG_DWORD0x00000000  (0)

denotes that NCSI is disabled, yet this is the value that this user has. I tried setting it to 1, but after reboot, it's back to 0.

User: Lancorp Network

Popular Topics in Windows 10

Author Lancorp Network

Thanks for all the suggestions, but I think I got it figured out.

I had scoured the web a bit more and found where someone had exactly the same behavior and they attributed it to the Intel ProSet Wireless Software.

Since I had already manually updated the WIFI driver with the latest, I uninstalled the ProSet software and voila!  I got the wireless icon in the system tray instead of the globe (which now that I think about it, the globe was telling me it thought there was a wired connection, possibly?).  Not sure if 1903 shows globe for both wired and wireless but maybe that was a clue.

So, hopefully this helps someone in the future!

Author Sebastian Linn

Tried a fresh OS install?

Author Alex Tauer

There are a lot of things that could cause this problem:  A/V software, firewall, etc.  Have you tried disabling your A/V software and firewall temporarily to see if that helps?

Author Eric Vieth

We've had this issue, our temporary fix is to ipconfig /renew. I'm not sure on the specifics, but I know it's related to our DHCP server running on an old firewall.

spicehead-atauercln wrote: There are a lot of things that could cause this problem:  A/V software, firewall, etc.  Have you tried disabling your A/V software and firewall temporarily to see if that helps?

He wrote about Defender only active, so not the issue here.

Coffeemaker2 wrote: spicehead-atauercln wrote: There are a lot of things that could cause this problem:  A/V software, firewall, etc.  Have you tried disabling your A/V software and firewall temporarily to see if that helps?

Just re-read that.  Defender could be causing a problem, although it is extremely unlikely.  Its more than likely an issue with the installation of the Office program, either a temporary file causing a problem, a registry key that didn't update properly, etc.  A fresh install of the OS would likely fix the problem, but that is a lot of work just to get a program to register through a licensing server.

Just curious, @lancorpnetwork have you tried running the software as an administrator?  If not, close out of the program, right-click on the icon for the program, and click "Run As Administrator".  See if that makes a difference.

Author Matthew Bartle

When nothing else is working for network problems, I try these:

 netsh winsock reset

 netsh int ipv4 reset

then reboot.

Office isn't causing the issue.  Office is impacted by the issue.  Initially, the client was on 1803 with Office 2013 retail, and had the issue with the network icon saying limited connectivity, although internet worked fine.  But in Office 2013, the online help didn't work.  After trying a few things I had read about, I decided to try Windows 1903 update.  Still broken.  Then tried upgrading the office from retail 2013 to subscription Office 365 Personal.  Then discovered I could not activate it once installed as it said I was not online.  

Apps aside, the issue is Windows sees a connectivity issue where there isn't one. 

Matt Bartle wrote: When nothing else is working for network problems, I try these:  netsh winsock reset  netsh int ipv4 reset then reboot.

I have tried the "ipv4 reset" and it temporarily broke the Wifi connection after reboot.  It would not connect to the Wifi.  I was working remotely on this PC and had to talk the client through a few things to get WIFI to connect again.

I will try the winsock reset.

Author Jon Crapo

The Cisco Umbrella client was causing this issue in my network.  The fix was to add the following line to the hosts file:

131.107.255.255  dns.msftncsi.com

There is some good information about this issue here:

https://community.spiceworks.com/topic/519915-network-adapter-shows-no-internet-access

Jon17 wrote: The Cisco Umbrella client was causing this issue in my network.  The fix was to add the following line to the hosts file: 131.107.255.255  dns.msftncsi.com There is some good information about this issue here: https://community.spiceworks.com/topic/519915-network-adapter-shows-no-internet-access

I had already put that line in the hosts file.  No fix.

Also, the "netsh winsock reset" did not fix it.

Wow, this is a puzzle! Have you tried deleting the nics from Device Manager and having Windows rediscover and install them?

Matt Bartle wrote: Wow, this is a puzzle! Have you tried deleting the nics from Device Manager and having Windows rediscover and install them?

Not yet because I am working remotely on this (using GotoAssist), which proves the internet connection is good, just Windows doesn't think so!

Here is what the Windows 10 Network Status screen shows:

Image: post content

"Connected to unknown network...no traffic".  Network and Sharing Center shows i'm set to "Private Network".

Author Brian Swales

Try turning off IP6 on the network connection.

Fessor wrote: Try turning off IP6 on the network connection.

If that is done by unchecking the box next to "Internet Protocol V6", then I've done that already.

Image: post content

This happens on one of our servers every couple of months. We just have to restart the "IP Helper" service and then it realizes it has internet again. It's only temporary and doesn't solve the underlying issue though.

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Force Office 365 to activate even when PC has incorrect "no internet" status

Office 365 is refusing to activate (or do a full repair) because the computer has an incorrect "no internet" network status. I tried disabling NCSI, but it still said "no internet". I can confirm that I can access both sites listed in the NCIS registry as well, so I'm not sure why this is not working.

I wonder if there is a way to tackle the problem from the other end and get Office 365 to connect to the existing internet. The PC does have internet access.

David's user avatar

  • 2 Office 365 must communicate with a licensing server every 30 days. This can either be through the internet or on an intranet by using a KMS. I am guessing you are not using a VLK or have a properly configured KMS. The tools exists but they required your an Office VLK. You should focus on fixing the incorrect internet status. –  Ramhound Aug 5, 2020 at 19:46
  • The network status of Windows 10 would affect activation of Office 365. I think it's best to repair network icon to display correctly first. Please check whether the following threads could be helpful. Windows 10 thinks there is no internet connection , False "No Internet Access" keeping Office apps from activating –  Emily Aug 6, 2020 at 1:53

I was able to get NSCI to work by running the below fix. After that, Activating 365 was a breeze.

https://purepcs.co.uk/kb/microsoft-connection-test-ncsi-and-office-365/

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how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

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Connection issues in sign-in after update to Office 2016 build 16.0.7967 on Windows 10

  • 8 contributors
  • Applies to: Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise, Office 2016

To diagnose and automatically fix several common Office sign-in issues, you can download and run the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant .

This article contains information about a new authentication framework for Microsoft Office 2016.

By default, Microsoft Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise (2016 version) uses Azure Active Directory Authentication Library (ADAL) framework-based authentication. Starting in build 16.0.7967, Office uses Web Account Manager (WAM) for sign-in workflows on Windows builds that are later than 15000 (Windows 10, version 1703, build 15063.138).

General guidance

If you experience authentication issues in Office application on Windows 10, we recommend to do the following actions:

  • Update Office products to the latest build for your channel according to Update history for Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise (listed by date) .
  • Any build for Windows 10, version 1809 or a later version
  • 17134.677 or later builds for Windows 10, version 1803
  • 16299.461 or later builds for Windows 10, version 1709
  • 15063.1112 or later builds for Windows 10, version 1703

You may experience one of the following symptoms after you update to Microsoft Office 2016 build 16.0.7967 or a later version on Windows 10.

When the overall network is working on your devices, Office applications may experience connection issues. You may see a message that resembles the following:

You'll need the internet for this. We couldn't connect to one of the services we needed to sign you in. Please check your connection and try again. 0xCAA70007

Screenshot of the error message shows that you will need the internet for this.

To determine whether you're experiencing this kind of issue, follow these steps:

Make sure that you're running Office build 16.0.9126.2259 or a later build. (The latest build on your channel is great. See the general guidance in the Overview section.)

  • Open Event Viewer.

Go to Applications and Services Logs > Microsoft > Windows > Microsoft Entra ID .

In the Operational logs, locate messages from XMLHTTPWebRequest that have the following pattern:

Make sure that the time of these errors is related to the time when you actually had an Internet connection. This is not an intermittent network issue because of the loss of a Wi-Fi connection or a wake-up after hibernation and initialization of the network stack.

Then, to determine whether your issue is due to network environment or local firewall/antivirus software, follow these steps:

Open Edge (not Internet Explorer) and go to https://login.microsoftonline.com . Navigation should land on https://www.office.com or your company's default landing page. If this fails, the issue is in a network environment or local firewall/antivirus software.

Open Edge (not Internet Explorer) in InPrivate mode and go to https://login.microsoftonline.com . After you enter credentials, navigation should land on https://www.office.com or your company's default landing page. If this fails, the issue is in a network environment or local firewall/antivirus software.

To resolve this issue, make sure that your local firewall, antivirus software, and Windows Defender don't block the following Microsoft Entra WAM plug-in processes that engaged in token acquisition:

C:\Windows\SystemApps\Microsoft.AAD.BrokerPlugin_cw5n1h2txyewy\Microsoft.AAD.BrokerPlugin.exe

C:\Windows\System32\backgroundTaskHost.exe

Note The PackageFamilyName of the plugin is the following:

Microsoft.AAD.BrokerPlugin_cw5n1h2txyewy

Also, make sure that your network environment doesn't block the primary destination:

https://login.microsoftonline.com/

Note This primary address covers many IP addresses (and many services). Some of these addresses may be blocked in the environment for no good reason, which causes intermittent problems in some devices while other devices work fine.

When you try to open or save a document in Microsoft SharePoint Online, OneDrive for Business, or SharePoint, or you try to synchronize email messages or your calendar in Microsoft Outlook, you're prompted for credentials. After you enter credentials, you're prompted again. This issue may occur for the following reasons:

The Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip or firmware is malfunctioning. Windows uses the TPM chip to protect your credentials. The chip may become corrupted or reset in some conditions. To determine whether you are experiencing this kind of issue, follow these steps:

  • In the Operational logs, locate the errors that display the following pattern: 0x? 028 ????, 0x? 029 ???? or 0x? 009 ????

To avoid this issue in future, we recommend that you update the TPM firmware.

For Windows 10, version 1709 or later versions: The operating system automatically detects situations that are related to TPM failures and provides a user recovery process that should occur automatically. If this process doesn't occur automatically, we recommend that you use this manual recovery method.

For Windows 10, version 1703: An automatic process is provided for Microsoft Entra hybrid join. No automatic process is provided for other environment configurations. If the Microsoft Entra hybrid join process doesn't occur automatically, we recommend that you use this manual recovery method.

A device is disabled by the user, the Enterprise administrator, or a policy because of a security concern or by mistake. To determine whether you are experiencing this issue, follow these steps:

Open Event viewer.

In the Operational logs, locate the following message:

Description: AADSTS70002: Error validating credentials. AADSTS135011: Device used during the authentication is disabled.

To resolve this issue, we recommend that the Enterprise administrator enable the device in Active Directory or Microsoft Entra ID. For information about how to manage devices in Microsoft Entra ID, see the Device management tasks section of the "How to manage devices using the Azure portal" topic.

The Enterprise administrator or a policy deleted a device because of a security reason or by mistake. To verify that you are experiencing this issue, follow these steps:

Description: AADSTS70002: Error validating credentials. AADSTS50155: Device is not authenticated.

To resolve this issue, we recommend that you recover the device by using the manual recovery method. Note If nobody on the Enterprise deleted the device, please file a support ticket and provide an example of a device that is not recovered.

Manual recovery

To do a manual recovery of the computer, follow the appropriate steps, depending on how the device is joined to the cloud (Microsoft Entra hybrid join, Add a work account, or Microsoft Entra join).

Microsoft Entra hybrid join

Run the following command: ​​ >dsregcmd /status

The result should contain the following fields (in Device state):

The current logon user should be a domain user. The affected identity should be the current logon user.

Recovery (safe to do):

Run the Dsregcmd /leave command in an administrative Command Prompt window, and then restart the system.

Add a work account

Run the following command: >dsregcmd /status

The result should contain the following field (in User state):

The device state can be set to any option. The current logon user can be any user. The affected identity should be a work or school account that you can see in Setting > Accounts > Access work or school .

Remove the work account in Setting > Accounts > Access work or school , and then restore the work account.

Microsoft Entra join

The current logon user should be a Microsoft Entra user. The affected identity should be the current logon user.

Note Back up your data first.

Create a new local administrator. Disconnect from the domain ( Setting > Accounts > Access work or school > Disconnect ). Then, log on as the new local administrator, and reconnect to Microsoft Entra ID.

The Office sign-in workflow stops or shows no on-screen progress. The sign-in window shows a "Signing in" message or a blank authentication screen.

Screenshot of the page that shows the Signing in status.

This issue occurs because WAM is disabling non-HTTPS traffic to prevent security threats, such as someone stealing user credentials. To verify that you are experiencing this issue, follow these steps:

Navigation to non-SSL destination. Non-secure communication is prohibited. Canceling navigation.

To resolve this issue and secure user credentials, we recommend that you enable HTTPS on the Identity servers.

You have a non-persistent Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) environment that has a federated Identity Provider (IdP) that is configured as Single-Sign On (SSO). You do not expect to be prompted to activate or sign in because SSO is configured. However, you are prompted to sign in for each new session. Office ULS logs display the following error message:

{"Action": "BlockedRequest", "HRESULT": "0xc0f10005"

Please open a support case if you experience this issue. We require more log entry reports to help isolate the issue.

More information

The following guidelines apply to this article:

  • On builds of Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10 that are earlier than 15000, ADAL authentication is the only option.
  • The Windows build should be later than 15000 (Windows 10, version 1703, build 15063.138, Generally Available). For more information, see Windows 10 release information .
  • This article applies whether you use Microsoft Federation or non-Microsoft Federation solutions.

For more information, see the following Knowledge Base article:

4347010 Error Code: 0x8004deb4 when signing in to OneDrive for Business

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No Internet Connection? How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues

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It’s incredibly frustrating when your internet isn’t working. Whether you’re hooked up to Wi-Fi but without internet access or you’re having trouble with a wired Ethernet connection, we’ll show you the quickest methods to identify the problem and get back online.

When it comes to internet troubleshooting, you can either methodically work your way through the troubleshooting steps or just start trying fixes until something works. While methodical troubleshooting is better for getting to the bottom of an issue once and for all, sometimes you just need to get back online ASAP. We’ll start with our top five internet quick fixes and then walk you through a more thorough troubleshooting process if you’re still having issues.

Top 5 quick fixes for internet issues

  • Is it your internet signal or your Wi-Fi?
  • Connected to Wi-Fi but no internet access

Wi-Fi troubleshooting

Advanced troubleshooting.

  • Complete list of internet fixes

1. Restart your modem and router or internet gateway (modem/router combo) An equipment restart is the golden rule of internet troubleshooting. This should always be your first step; it’s simple, easy, and incredibly effective. See instructions.

2. Check your wires and cables Loose or damaged cables can cause a wide range of internet issues. Sometimes the fix is as simple as tightening a connection, other times you may need to replace a cable or require the help of a broadband technician. See instructions.

3. Move your router to a better spot If you’re using the internet over Wi-Fi, router placement is crucial. Sometimes moving your router just a few feet or changing the angle of the antennae can make a world of difference. See instructions.

4. Test a different website or online activity The problem may be with the app, service, or website you’re trying to access. If only one website or service is acting up, your connection is probably fine.

5. Check for an outage If the problem is on your internet provider’s end, you can’t do anything to fix it. Make sure to check for outages before getting too deep into your troubleshooting efforts. See instructions. 

Internet still down?

It’s time to dig a bit deeper with our troubleshooting guide.

First, we’ll help you diagnose whether you have an internet signal issue or a problem with your Wi-Fi . Once you’ve discovered which type of problem you have, continue to either the internet signal troubleshooting section or the Wi-Fi troubleshooting section . If you’re still stumped, use our advanced troubleshooting section for particularly tricky circumstances.

Lastly, you can jump straight to our complete list of internet fixes and try each one until you’re back online.

Is the problem with your internet signal or your Wi-Fi?

Internet signal issues have different fixes than Wi-Fi issues—so, it’s important to find out which you’re dealing with. Examples of internet signal issues include problems with the signal coming from your ISP, modem issues, and issues with the wiring in and around your home. Wi-Fi issues are problems with your router’s wireless signal, such as interference from obstructions, too much distance between the router and devices, or interference from other networks and electronics.

You can tell an internet signal issue from a Wi-Fi issue with a few key troubleshooting steps.

Check the lights on your equipment

Nearly all modems, routers, and internet gateways have LED status lights. Your equipment may also have just one led light, in which case, the light’s behavior or color is often used to signal different statuses. ISPs usually provide a guide to interpreting the behavior of their rental equipment. If you purchased your own equipment, consult the manual.

Either way, the LED status lights on your equipment are very helpful for quickly diagnosing network problems.

Check the internet signal light

The light for an internet connection is on your modem and is usually labeled WAN, Internet, or with a globe icon, and you can tell the internet is on if the light (usually white or green) is solid.

If the light is red or not on at all, you have an internet signal problem as your modem isn’t successfully connecting to the internet. If this is you, skip ahead to our internet signal troubleshooting section .

Check the Wi-Fi light

The WiFi light(s) will be on your router or somewhere below the internet connection light if you have a modem/router combo unit. Labels for Wi-Fi lights vary but usually will read “2.4G” and “5G,” “WLAN,” or “Wireless.” These lights should be on and are usually blinking. If the Wi-Fi light(s) are off or red, your router isn’t broadcasting a signal. Skip to the Wi-Fi troubleshooting section to begin troubleshooting.

If the equipment lights aren’t revealing your internet issue, read on for the next steps.

A lot of internet issues can be remedied quickly by simply restarting your modem and router. It’s an easy fix that’s always worth a shot.

To restart your modem and router, unplug the power cable for 10 seconds and plug it back in. The equipment will take a few minutes to reboot.

Try using an Ethernet cable to test your connection

If you’re on Wi-Fi, try plugging your computer directly into your router with an Ethernet cable. This is the tried and true way to differentiate signal issues from Wi-Fi issues. Connect the Ethernet cable to the port on your computer, and plug the other end into one of the LAN ports on your router (these are usually yellow). Connecting the computer directly to the single port on a modem bypasses essential security measures built into the router. You need to connect to a router or modem/router combo unit to remain protected online.

If your internet comes back when you use a wired Ethernet connection, then you have a Wi-Fi problem; continue to our Wi-Fi troubleshooting section . If you still don’t have internet, the problem is likely bigger than your Wi-Fi, but it might still just be your device. Try accessing the web on a different device. If you still can’t get online, move on to our internet signal troubleshooting section to solve the problem.

Check for an internet outage

It could be that you’re not the only one whose internet is down. You can find information about internet outages on the website Down Detector , or you can contact your internet service provider (ISP) to investigate.

The site or service you’re trying to access could also be down. Try a few different websites. If they load properly, the original website you went to could be down for all visitors. (You can confirm this by typing in the URL at downforeveryoneorjustme.com .)

If the internet is down in your area, you may be able to use your cell phone as a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot to get online. You can also go outside in search of a public Wi-Fi hotspot to connect to. Take a look at our Wi-Fi hotspot guide for more details.

Wi-Fi connected but no internet?

If you’re connected to your Wi-Fi but still don’t have internet access, there’s probably something wrong with your internet signal. The same is true if you’re unable to access the internet using a wired connection. Try these fixes first.

Restart your modem, router, and device

Restarting your modem and router should be the first thing you do when encountering an internet signal issue. Don’t skip this step! This is almost always what tech support will ask you to try first, as it often solves the problem.

To restart your equipment, unplug the power cable for 60 seconds and plug it back in. The equipment will take a few minutes to reboot. It’s also a good idea to restart the device you’re using.

Check your cables and wires

Wires and cables often become loose or damaged from repeated stress. The cable feeding the internet to your modem is either a coaxial cable (the same used for cable TV), an Ethernet cable, or a phone cable. The best way to troubleshoot cables is to swap them all out, if you have extras.

Otherwise, make sure to connect these cables to both the modem and your wall outlet. Ethernet and phone cables should click when they are fully inserted into a socket. Coaxial cables should be screwed on snugly.

Also, check for damage. See if the cable looks torn or perhaps chewed by a pet. Ethernet and phone cables are especially prone to damage, as the copper wires inside are very thin.

Ethernet cables aren’t all the same, and it’s important to get the right type of Ethernet cable for the job. See our Ethernet cable article to make sure you have the right one.

When should you contact your provider?

It’s a good idea to try some basic troubleshooting before contacting your provider. Restarting your modem and checking wires will likely be the first things tech support asks you to do anyway. But if you can’t solve the problem on your own, it’s time to contact your provider for a little help.

If your ISP isn’t experiencing an outage, it can run a diagnostic on your modem to see if it’s properly communicating with the network. They may discover many possible issues, including a low signal level, device registration issues, obsolete equipment (even if you rent it from the ISP), or a glitch in the system. You may have just forgotten to pay your internet bill.

Most large ISPs also have online/chat support options through their websites and apps, if you’d rather not sit on the phone.

If you’re still having issues after trying these common fixes, move on to our advanced troubleshooting section further down the page.

Fed up with internet problems? Check out your other options.

Enter your zip code below to see all the internet providers available in your area.

You’ve figured out something’s wrong with your Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi gets tricky. It’s radio waves being broadcast by your router and a number of things can interfere with those waves. Try these common fixes first.

Restart your router

This fix works so often that it’s always worth trying first. The process is the same as restarting a modem: unplug the router or gateway, wait 60 seconds, and plug it back in. It will take several minutes to reboot.

Switch Wi-Fi bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)

Your router likely transmits Wi-Fi over two frequency bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Try switching from the frequency band you’re on to the other. This helps you avoid temporary interference while also resetting the connection between your device and router. It’s a common convention for the 5 GHz network to have a “5G” label following the network name (i.e., “Jane’s Wi-Fi [5G]). The 2.4 GHz band is commonly labeled with your network name (i.e. “Jane’s Wi-Fi) without a frequency label.

Each frequency band has its strengths and weaknesses. Basically, 5 GHz Wi-Fi is faster but doesn’t travel as far. 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi travels farther but is slower than 5 GHz and more susceptible to radio interference. So, if you’re far from the router try the 2.4 GHz, and if you need more speed and are within range, give the 5 GHz a try.

Test your Wi-Fi on different devices

If you’re on your laptop, use your phone or tablet to see if you can get online over the same Wi-Fi connection. If it connects on one device but not the other, then you know that your internet Wi-Fi is fine and it’s the disconnected device that’s having the problem.

Try a different Ethernet cable

If you have a spare Ethernet cable, swap it out with the one currently plugged into your modem and router and see if it makes a difference. Cables don’t last forever, and it could be that your current Ethernet cable has kicked the bucket and needs to be replaced.

Need a recommendation on a good replacement cable? This Cat-6 Ethernet cable is fast, sturdy, and affordable. You could also check out our article on the best Ethernet cables to learn more.

Amazon.com Price (as of 10/21/2021 10:15 MST). See full disclaimer .

Improve the position of your device and/or router

For router placement, the key factors to consider are distance, elevation, and obstructions. So, when picking a spot for your router, choose somewhere central and elevated relative to your devices. Furthermore, do your best to avoid placing the router near any electronic devices (especially microwaves) or any disruptive surfaces.

Wi-Fi radio waves get weaker the farther they travel. You want to have your device well within your router’s broadcast range. The Wi-Fi signal meter on your device helps you judge the strength of the current Wi-Fi signal.

It’s also important to place the router as high as possible. The router’s signal broadcast isn’t a straight line to your device. The signal shines out like light from a bulb, creating a dome of Wi-Fi. A higher router means a wider broadcast and better coverage of your home.

Certain obstructions and devices can also interfere with Wi-Fi signals. Wi-Fi can easily pass through wood and drywall, but tile, metal, concrete, and especially water are known to interfere with Wi-Fi signals. Microwaves, baby monitors, and cordless phones are also Wi-Fi killers when they’re running.

See our article on where to place your router to learn more about finding that perfect spot for your Wi-Fi machine.

If none of those quick fixes did the trick, there’s still plenty of things to try. Keep in mind that your problem may have more than one cause. That’s why we recommend going through the above steps first, as they are the most common fixes for internet issues.

Below are some of the rarer internet issues. These can be tough to diagnose, so it’s best to just try each one out until something works.

Run the internet troubleshooter (for Windows)

If you’re on Windows, run the built-in troubleshooter program to see if your computer can fix the issue for you. For Windows 10, click to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot, and then select the troubleshooter for Internet Connections.

Run Apple Diagnostics or Apple Hardware Test (for macOS)

Most Mac computers have a built-in diagnostic program that will scan your computer for issues, including problems with Wi-Fi. It’s called Apple Diagnostics on models from 2013 and later and Apple Hardware Test on models from 2012 with at least OS X 10.8.4.

To run Apple Diagnostics, disconnect any Ethernet cables and external drives, hit restart, and hold down the D key as the computer reboots. Pick a language, and then the diagnostic will launch automatically.

You can launch the Apple Hardware Test in a similar way. The only difference is that you should press Return or the right arrow button when the screen for the test appears as your computer is restarting and you’re given the prompt to choose a language.

Clear your DNS cache

The DNS cache is a digital log your browser uses as a shortcut to quickly load web pages you’ve visited before. But your cache can create technical issues if there’s a glitch or online malware has inserted uninvited URLs into your cache.

Here’s how to clear your cache on different devices:

Go to the Command Prompt by doing one of these things:

Option 1: Type “cmd” into the search bar

Option 2: Find the Command Prompt shortcut in the Windows System folder

Option 3: Type “cmd” into the Run window.

Once you’re in the Command Prompt, type in “ipconfig /flushdns.” Hit Enter to flush the cache.

Run the Terminal app. You can find it one of these ways:

Option 1: Open Terminal in the Utilities folder.

Option 2: Search “Terminal” using the Spotlight function.

In the Terminal app, enter the command to flush your cache. The command you’ll type can be slightly different depending on your Mac operating system (OS):

Yosemite and after: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

Yosemite 10.10–10.10.3: sudo discoveryutil mdnsflushcache

Mavericks, Mountain Lion, Lion: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

Snow Leopard: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache

You’ll be prompted to enter in the administrator password for your account. Then your cache is flushed—and hopefully any glitches with it.

Smartphones

On an iPhone or Apple device, there are two easy ways to clear your DNS cache:

Option 1: Switch on and then switch off Airplane Mode.

Option 2: Restart your device.

For Android devices, here’s how you clear your DNS cache:

Step 1: Type “chrome://net-internals/#dns” into the URL bar in Chrome.

Step 2: Tap the DNS menu.

Step 3: Click Clear Host Cache.

After you’ve cleared your cache, test your connection to see if it’s back online.

Is your connection as fast as you need?

You can always download our speed test app to see if your internet speeds match those offered on your monthly internet plan.

how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

You can always take our speed test to see if your internet speeds match those offered on your monthly internet plan.

how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

Scan for viruses and malware

Run a scan to see if malware or a virus is on your computer. Malicious programs can use up a lot of your bandwidth or block your internet connection entirely. McAfee , Norton , and Bitdefender all make quality antivirus software.

Switch off your antivirus software

We definitely recommend keeping antivirus software activated on your computer. However, misconfigured antivirus protections can sometimes interfere with your internet connection, so try turning off your antivirus software or firewall to see if the internet comes back.

Use a different Wi-Fi channel

This is especially important for those living in apartments and other living situations where there are multiple routers in the same area. Routers automatically select a frequency channel on which to broadcast your Wi-Fi. If there are other devices and routers nearby, these channels can become overcrowded.

To assess the best channel for your home, you’ll need to use a Wi-Fi channel analyzer. There are many free Android apps (iOS doesn’t allow it, unfortunately) that can do this. The channel analyzer will tell you what channels are being heavily used. Once you find a relatively open channel, change the channel in your router’s settings. See our article on how to log in to your router if you need some help with this.

See what’s on your Wi-Fi network

There may be a device on your Wi-Fi network that’s hogging the bandwidth or creating other connectivity problems. Your router might also limit how many devices can be connected at once, and it could be kicking devices off the network as a result.

To find out what’s on your network, log in to your router’s interface (use your cell phone if you can’t get Wi-Fi on your computer or connect via Ethernet) and look for a list labeled with a term like “DHCP clients,” “connected devices,” or “attached devices.” Usually, the name of the devices being used are included on the list (example: “Peter’s iPhone,” “Rebecca’s Macbook,” or “Computer 1”).

You can then figure out who’s using the Wi-Fi and ask everyone in your household if they’re doing anything that’s taking up too much internet speed.

Many routers let you kick devices off the Wi-Fi, so go ahead and give a user the boot if you don’t know them or they’re causing problems. You can also change the Wi-Fi password so they can’t get back on.

Internet running slow?

If you’re experiencing repeated slowdowns and outages, you may have an internet plan that’s too slow. Take our “How much speed do I need?” test to see if you’re paying for enough internet bandwidth to deliver the goods.

how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

Make sure you have a working IP address

There’s a chance your computer is having trouble configuring a valid IP address. Your computer needs a unique IP to get on the internet, but you won’t be able to get online if multiple devices are assigned the same IP or if something has prevented your computer from assigning one. It’s not a particularly common issue, but it can happen—especially if you have multiple routers on the same home network.

To ensure you have a valid IP address, use the instructions in our article on how to find your IP address .

Force open the network’s login page (for public Wi-Fi)

Hotels, airports, and cafes often provide free internet—usually, all you have to do is open your browser and sign on to the public Wi-Fi network through a login screen. But what if that login page refuses to load?

You can force open the login page by typing one of these codes into your browser’s address bar:

  • 192.168.1.1
  • http://localhost

Get fiber internet

Fiber internet is by far the fastest and most reliable internet you can get. So if you can get a fiber internet package for your home, we highly recommend you go for it, since it will vastly reduce the chance of annoying slowdowns and service outages that are more common on other internet connection types.

You can get speeds of anywhere from 100 Mbps to 1,000 Mbps on a fiber connection, giving you ample bandwidth to cover a range of activities and tasks while also supporting many other users on your Wi-Fi. Prices range from $35 per month to $100 per month.

Fiber isn’t available everywhere, unfortunately. But if you frequently have problems with your connection, it could be worth looking into some kind of upgrade or switching providers.

Enter your zip code to see what other internet options are in your area. It may be worth switching internet providers if you experience frequent technical glitches.

Upgrade your equipment

You may experience connection issues if you have outdated equipment that doesn’t match the latest wireless standards: 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). You’ll also want to ensure that your modem supports DOCSIS 3.0 protocol or newer (for cable internet).

You may have issues with an older router, computer, or other Wi-Fi device that doesn’t adhere to recent wireless standards. In that case, you may want to invest in a new router. Or your computer may need a new wireless adapter (a device that lets you connect to a Wi-Fi network).

Here’s how to check the wireless standard of your computer:

Step 1: Hold down Option while clicking on the Apple menu in the top left of the screen, then select System Information.

Step 2: Scroll down to Network, click Wi-Fi in the drop-down menu, and look for the readout for Supported PHY Modes. This will tell you what wireless standard your computer is outfitted for.

Step 1: Right-click on the Start menu button and then click the command for Device Manager. (Or type “Device Manager” into the search bar in the Start menu—either way works.)

Step 2: Once you’re in Device Manager, click on the menu titled Network adapters and look for the listing of your wireless adapter and the wireless standard it’s set to.

Reset your equipment to factory settings

If you’ve tried everything else to no avail, it may be time to reset your router or gateway to its factory settings. This is a pretty big step because it will restore the router/gateway to the way it was when you first pulled it out of the box, wiping the slate clean.

Resetting your router will erase your password and issue a default one (which you will then want to change for security reasons). It will also erase any memory of custom features or guest networks you’ve set up through the router, and it will kick off all the devices that were signed onto the network.

Getting everything back up and running again will take a chunk of time out of your day, so this is worth trying only if you have no other options.

Anyway, here’s how you do it. Use a safety pin or paperclip to push the button hidden in the tiny hole at the back of the router. Hold it down for a few moments until the status lights go out and begin to reset.

Even if your internet is working fine, there are always ways to make your Wi-Fi connection even better. Take a look at our tips on how to improve your Wi-Fi bandwidth .

Reset your computer’s network settings (a.k.a. the nuclear option)

If all else fails, it’s time to reset your computer’s network entirely. This changes everything back to default settings. It’s not the most convenient option, but it could be the fix you need to start from scratch and erase the Wi-Fi bugs once and for all.

Keep in mind that this isn’t like turning off the computer and turning it back on. In the same way that resetting your router restores that equipment to factory settings, restoring your network totally wipes out your computer’s Wi-Fi settings, bringing it back to how it was when you were just setting it up for the first time.

Your computer will forget your network settings, including your Wi-Fi network’s name, passwords, and VPN settings. Do this only as a last resort. Make sure you save your passwords and other necessary info before doing the reset.

OK, then. Ready? Alright, here’s how to do it:

How to reset your Wi-Fi network on Mac

Step 1: Click Apple menu > System Preferences > Network.

Step 2: Click on Wi-Fi in the drop-down menu on the left of the screen

Step 3: Hit the minus (-) button to remove it. Then add it again by clicking the plus button (+) and selecting Wi-Fi in the Interface options.

Step 4: Hit Apply and close out of the Network settings.

How to reset your Wi-Fi network on Windows

Step 1: Click to Windows Settings > Network & Internet > Status.

Step 2: Hit the Network reset button.

Step 3: Hit Reset now to confirm.

Step 4: Hit Yes to confirm once again. (This is just for Windows 10. For previous Windows operating systems, see Microsoft’s Support page .)

Step 5: Restart your computer and follow the prompts for Windows to guide you through setting up your new home network. Good luck!

Complete list of fixes if your internet is not working

If you’d rather skip the troubleshooting and just start trying things, have at it. Here are all our internet fixes in a simple list.

1. Restart your equipment

To restart your modem and router or gateway, unplug the power cable and wait 60 seconds before plugging it back in. It will take a few minutes to reboot. Restart your device as well.

2. Connect with an Ethernet cable

Connecting via Ethernet will rule out issues with your Wi-Fi network. If you can get online via Ethernet, there’s something interfering with your Wi-Fi. This fix gets you back online right away, and then you can use our Wi-Fi troubleshooting section to fix the issue.

3. Check for an internet outage

The internet may be down in your area. You can use a site like downdetector.com to see if anyone else is having connection issues in your area. Many ISPs also have outage alerts via their websites and apps. Of course, you could always just call your ISP to find out if there’s an outage.

4. Try using a different device

See if you can get a connection on a different device. The device you’re using might not be connected properly to your router.

5. Check your wires and cables

Your cables and wires could be loose or damaged. Coaxial cables should be screwed on snugly and phone and Ethernet cables should be fully inserted into the sockets. While you’re at it, look for signs of damage in the form of kinks, hard twisting, excessive tension, even chew marks from pets.

You could also try just swapping out cables if you have extras. Start with the Ethernet cable that connects your modem to your router. The copper lines inside the cable or in the connectors could have become severed without any obvious visible signs of damage. The springy clip on the connector could also have worn out, in which case the slightest nudge of the cable could cause your internet to go in and out.

6. Run your computer’s internet troubleshooter

Something may be amiss within your computer’s operating system. Both Mac and PC computers have troubleshooters built into their OS that can solve the problem for you. If you need help, see our instructions on using your computer’s troubleshooter .

7. Reposition your router/gateway

Your router’s placement can make or break your home’s Wi-Fi coverage. The key things to remember when choosing a location are elevation, distance, and obstructions. Elevate your router to provide a wider coverage area. Choose a central location to cover your home as completely as possible. Lastly, be mindful of obstructions like metal, tile, concrete, and water that can hamper Wi-Fi signals.

Alternatively, you could try moving your device closer to your router—somewhere with a clear line of sight to avoid obstructions. See our article on router placement for more information.

8. Update everything

Obviously, you’ll need internet access to update your OS, system firmware, and network software. To do so, you may need to use your mobile phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot, seek out a public Wi-Fi hotspot, or hop on a friend or family member’s internet connection.

It’s important to keep the OS and applications on your devices updated. Be especially mindful of OS updates, firmware updates (particularly network and wireless adapter updates), and antivirus application updates.

9. Ensure your equipment isn’t obsolete

You may be using an obsolete modem, router, or gateway—even if you rent your equipment from your ISP. The provider will usually notify you if you’re renting obsolete equipment, but it’s easy to overlook this alert.

Ensure your modem supports the DOCSIS 3.0 protocol or newer (for cable internet). Your router and device should support the Wi-Fi 5 wireless standard or newer.

The firmware on your equipment is usually updated automatically by the ISP.

10. Check your modem’s signal level

The signal from your ISP to your modem needs to be above a certain strength threshold to function properly. Low signal to the modem could easily result in a slow or completely dead internet connection.

It used to be that only a broadband technician with an expensive meter could tell your signal strength, but now, many routers and even some ISP apps will give you a signal reading. You can also call your ISP to run a diagnostic on your modem. If you have low signal strength to your modem, you probably need a technician to come out and repair the problem.

11. Contact your ISP

Your ISP can help you diagnose connection problems by running a diagnostic on your equipment. Customer service can find and solve all kinds of problems over the phone or through chat support. It’s certainly worth a try. If your issue can’t be solved over the phone, you can set up an appointment with a technician just in case you can’t fix the issue yourself.

12. Turn off your antivirus software

This isn’t something we recommend lightly, but it could do the trick. Turning off your antivirus software makes your system more vulnerable to malicious software and cyber attacks. Still, your antivirus software is a major link between your device and the internet. The possibility of an issue here is often worth exploring after exhausting the likely causes.

If you are able to get online after deactivating your antivirus software, we recommend you either turn it back on and get in touch with your antivirus software’s technical support team or replace the software immediately before browsing the web unprotected.

13. Reset your equipment to factory settings

Resetting your modem and router or gateway reverts all settings to the factory defaults. The most important thing to remember here is that your passwords and networks will all be erased. You’ll have to reset your network name and password and reconnect all your devices.

Additionally, the login credentials used to access and change your equipment’s settings will also switch back to the default username and password (usually printed on a sticker attached to the equipment). This is different from your Wi-Fi name and password. If you don’t know your equipment’s default login credentials, you should call your equipment’s manufacturer or ISP (for rented equipment) before attempting this step. You could end up completely locked out otherwise.

See our instructions above to learn how to reset your equipment.

14. Make sure you have a working IP address

There’s a chance that your computer is having trouble configuring a valid IP address. Your computer needs a unique IP to get on the internet, but you won’t be able to get online if multiple devices are assigned the same IP or if something has prevented your computer from assigning one. It’s not a particularly common issue, but it can happen—especially if you have multiple routers on the same home network.

See our instructions above to learn how to check for a valid IP address on Windows and Mac.

15. Reset your computer’s network settings

Resetting your network settings is similar to resetting your equipment. Your computer’s network settings will revert to their factory defaults, and you’ll need to re-enter your network information again.

See our instructions above to learn how to reset your computer’s network settings.

Still can’t get good Wi-Fi? It may be time to switch internet providers. Type in your zip code to see if you can find a more reliable ISP in your area.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. HighSpeedInternet.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED ‘AS IS’ AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

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Author - Austin Aguirre

Austin worked as a broadband technician installing and troubleshooting countless home internet networks for some of the largest ISPs in the U.S. He became a freelance writer in 2020 specializing in software guides. After graduating with a BS in technical communication from Arizona State University, he joined the team at HighSpeedInternet.com where he focuses on home network improvement and troubleshooting.

Editor - Rebecca Lee Armstrong

Rebecca Lee Armstrong has more than six years of experience writing about tech and the internet, with a specialty in hands-on testing. She started writing tech product and service reviews while finishing her BFA in creative writing at the University of Evansville and has found her niche writing about home networking, routers, and internet access at HighSpeedInternet.com. Her work has also been featured on Top Ten Reviews, MacSources, Windows Central, Android Central, Best Company, TechnoFAQ, and iMore.

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  • Get started with the new Outlook
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how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

Troubleshoot Outlook for Windows issues

If you are having problems with Outlook, there are a few things we can help with to get you back to sending and receiving your email.

Important:  Steps may be different between  new  and classic Outlook for Windows. To determine which version of Outlook you're using, look for  File  on the ribbon. If there's no  File  option, follow the steps under the New Outlook tab. If the  File  option appears, select the tab for Classic Outlook .

For information on emerging or known Outlook issues, go to  Fixes or workarounds for recent issues in Outlook for PC.

Restart new Outlook

Right-click Start and select Task Manager .

Select Microsoft Outlook , then End task .

Check to make sure that new Outlook is closed, then close Task Manager .

After new Outlook closes, reopen the app as you normally would.

Uninstall and reinstall the new Outlook for Windows

To uninstall new Outlook:

From the Start menu, select new Outlook for Windows .

Select the arrow to expand the list option in Start .

Select Uninstall to begin the uninstall process.

To reinstall new Outlook:

Open classic Outlook for Windows .

New Outlook for Windows toggle

Select this toggle to download the new app and you will switch to the new Outlook for Windows.

Does Outlook stop running or refuse to start?

If you can't open Outlook, or Outlook disappears or crashes, one of your add-ins may be to blame or you may need to update Outlook.

Check for updates

You might need to set Windows Update to automatically download and install recommended updates. Installing any important, recommended, and optional updates can often correct problems by replacing out-of-date files and fixing vulnerabilities. To install the latest Windows and Office updates, click the link below.

Keep Windows up to date with the latest Updates

Did that work? Great. If not, you can contact support.

Start Outlook in safe mode

You can start Outlook in safe mode, disable your add-ins, and then try to open Outlook normally.

In Windows 10, click Start .

Type Outlook /safe, in the Search programs and files and then click OK.

Close and re-open Outlook.

If the issue is resolved, you can keep working, or if you have time, take the following steps to find out what COM Add-in is causing the problem.

Open the File menu, click Options, then click Add-ins.

Select COM Add-ins and click Go.

Clear all the check boxes in the list to disable the Add-ins and click OK.

Restart Outlook.

If the issue does not occur, go back to the COM Add-ins screen and enable them one at a time until the error occurs. (Be sure to close and restart Outlook after each Add-in is enabled.)

Is Outlook frozen?

If you can't choose any of the menu options, type inside an email message, calendar event, or contact, Outlook may have frozen. There are three steps you can take to try to get Outlook working again.

Check for other Outlook processes running

Occasionally, Outlook tries to run a process in the background. Auto-archive, sending and receiving a very large attachment, or running some of the other mailbox tools can all be done in the background. Check the status bar at the bottom of the screen to see if another process is running. If so, wait a short time (usually two or three minutes) to see if Outlook starts working again.

Do you see the message "This set of folders could not be opened"?

If you can't open a particular set of folders, you can try to repair your personal folders file or create a new profile.

Create a new profile

Try following the steps outlined here to create a new profile:

Create an Outlook profile

Repair your .pst file

Try following the steps outlined here to repair your .pst file:

Repair Outlook Data Files (.pst and .ost)

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how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

Top Contributors in Microsoft Teams: EmilyS_726   ✅

February 14, 2024

Top Contributors in Microsoft Teams:

EmilyS_726   ✅

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Microsoft new Teams says "No Network connection. Please check your network settings and try again [2603]"

I started to have this issue from yesterday when switching to the new Teams. What I have tried so far

1. Checked my internet connection, that I can confirm I am able to access other web sites which means there is no issue for my local network connection.

2. Cleared Teams cache, deleted all under %appdata%\Microsoft\teams

3. Uninstalled Teams and installed again.

It's weird that the new Teams works fine if VPN connected, however it does not work when disconnecting VPN. I believe there's some misconfiguration in my local, but I have no clue how to figure it out, could you please give some help? thanks.

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Replies (3) .

  • Independent Advisor

Hi, Xi. I am an independent advisor, trying to help other users in the Community with my experience in Microsoft products. Please note that I am a user like you and don't work directly for Microsoft. I am sorry you are having trouble with Teams. As a user, I understand this can be very frustrating. I deeply understand the issue has affected your work, rest assured I will try to provide you with a solution. I take it you're using a Windows device. I experienced the same problem, and tried a host of things, including those you mentioned in your description. But nothing worked for me until I tried a solution i stumbled upon on another thread; https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/msoffice/forum/all/no-network-connection-please-check-your-network/b41f6132-fbd5-4227-beb8-988baf15cfe6 the solution was from Sylvester. "Enable TLS 1.2 on the machine. Go to internet options > Advanced > Check the TLS 1.2 option. Then restart the computer. This would fix the issue." This worked for other users as well. I hope this helps you. Let me know if this contradicts what you need. I remain helpful in answering any more of your questions. Warm Regards Femi

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Thanks for your feedback.

Thank you for your response, checked that TLS 1.2 already enabled in my local

how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

If that is the case, you can try and implement the following steps as highlighted by Shalom in the same article. "Here are some steps you can take to try and resolve this issue: 1. Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can help resolve activation issues. Try restarting your Windows 10 PC and then attempt to activate Office again. 2. Run Office Activation Troubleshooter: Windows 10 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can help diagnose and resolve activation problems. To run it, go to "Settings" > "Update & Security" > "Troubleshoot." Look for an option related to Office activation or product key issues and follow the on-screen instructions. 3. Check Your Office Subscription: Ensure that your Office subscription is active and that you have a valid license. If your subscription has expired, you may need to renew it to continue using Office. 4. Use Office Repair Tool: Microsoft provides an Office Repair Tool that can fix many common Office issues. You can download and run this tool from the official Microsoft website. 5. Use the Office Activation Wizard: Open any Office application (e.g., Word) and go to "File" > "Account." From there, you can choose the "Activate Office" option and follow the prompts to activate Office using your product key or Office 365 subscription. 6. Check Your Firewall and Antivirus Software: Sometimes, firewall or antivirus software can block Office activation. Ensure that your security software isn't blocking Office from accessing the internet. 7. Reinstall Office: If none of the above solutions work, you may need to uninstall and then reinstall Office on your Windows 10 PC. Before doing this, make sure you have your product key or Office 365 credentials handy." Warm Regards Femi

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How to Fix Office 365 Won’t Activate - A Comprehensive Guide

Microsoft Office is a great asset, delivering on its promises by providing an efficient work environment and high-quality tools to meet your office needs seamlessly. However, the activation process can sometimes present a significant learning curve. If you encounter difficulties with activation, there may be several underlying reasons. While addressing these reasons individually could potentially resolve the issue, we've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions in this article to assist you further with why Microsoft Office won’t activate.

 How to Fix Office 365 When It Won’t Activate

Reasons for Office 365 Won’t Activate

There can be various reasons why Microsoft Office 365 won't activate, and understanding these common issues can help troubleshoot activation problems effectively. Here are some common scenarios and examples to help identify the root cause:

Pre-installed License Interference:  Some computers come with pre-installed Office licenses from manufacturers like Dell or HP. These licenses may conflict with a new license, causing activation issues. For example, attempting to activate a new Office subscription on a computer that already has an OEM-installed Office license may result in activation failure.

Wrong Account Sign-ins : Using the wrong Microsoft account to sign in during the activation process can result in activation failure. For instance, if you inadvertently sign in with a personal Microsoft account instead of a business account associated with your Office subscription, activation may fail.

Office Overload: Having multiple versions or copies of Office installed on the same computer may cause conflicts and activation issues. For example, having both Office 2019 and Office 365 installed simultaneously could lead to activation problems.

Subscription Status concerns: If using a subscription-based Office version, failure to renew the subscription or an expired subscription can lead to activation problems. For instance, attempting to activate Office 365 after the subscription has expired will result in activation failure.

Internet Connectivity Issues: Poor internet connection or network issues can prevent Office from communicating with Microsoft servers for activation. For example, activation may fail if the computer is not connected to the internet or if there are firewall restrictions blocking communication with Microsoft servers.

Troubleshooting Activation Issues: A corrupted installation of Office files or registry entries may hinder the activation process. For instance, if Office installation files are damaged or incomplete, activation may fail.

Date and Time Configuration: Incorrect system date and time settings can cause activation failures. For example, if the system date and time are set incorrectly, Office activation may be rejected by Microsoft servers.

License Key issues: If using a volume license, issues with the key or its allocation may prevent activation. For example, if the volume license key is invalid or has exceeded the maximum number of activations, Office activation will fail.

How to Fix Office 365 Activation Errors

Even seasoned technical experts may find themselves puzzled when confronted with the issue of Microsoft Office 365 failing to activate. Resolving this problem requires some investigation to identify the underlying cause. The solution for rectifying the appearance of Microsoft Office as an unlicensed product can vary depending on the specific circumstances. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you're on the right path towards resolving the activation issue.

Method 1: Check your account

It's highly probable that you forgot to sign in with the correct account. Many users inadvertently use their personal email address instead of their work or school email, which is associated with their Microsoft Office 365 subscription. This common mistake can easily be resolved by signing in with the email linked to your Microsoft Office 365 subscription.

Step 1: Open any Microsoft 365 application, such as Word or Excel, and head to the "Account" section located in the menu bar.

Step 2: Within the "Account" section, you'll find information about your current login credentials. If you need to manage subscriptions or log out, click on "Manage Account".

Step 3: This action will redirect you to your Microsoft Account page on the official website, where you can perform further actions.

 Microsoft Office Word Account

Step 4: Once on the Microsoft Account page, look for the user icon located in the top right corner. Click on it and select "Sign in with a different account" if you need to switch to an alternative login.

Microsoft Accounts page

Step 5: Alternatively, if you want to review your subscriptions, navigate to the "Subscription" tab in the left-side panel. Here, you can access details about your current Microsoft 365 plan and make any necessary changes.

Microsoft Subscriptions

Method 2: Check your Office 365 Subscription

It's possible that you may have overlooked the last time you checked your license update, which is understandable as tracking such details can be tedious. Subscriptions often have a certain timeline, and yours may have expired, prompting the need for renewal. Here's how you can check your subscription status:

Step 1 : Begin by accessing the Microsoft Office Services & Subscriptions page using your preferred web browser.

Step 2: If you're not already signed in, enter your credentials associated with your Microsoft subscription to log in.

Step 3: Review the details of your Office subscription, which can be found under the "Subscription" section or may be listed separately as "Cancel Subscription".

Microsoft Office Subscription

Step 4: In the event that your subscription has lapsed, navigate to the Renew Microsoft 365 Family section and proceed with renewing your subscription.

Step 5: Once you've successfully renewed your subscription, close and reopen any Office applications you have running. The activation message should now be resolved.

Method 3: Update Office 365

If you're using your registered email account and still encountering problems, it's worth checking for updates to resolve any unlicensed product errors in Microsoft Office.

Step 1: Open any Microsoft Office application, such as Word, PowerPoint, or Excel.

Step 2 : Go to the "Account" section in the left-side panel to view your account details.

Step 3: Within the Accounts window, click on "Update Options" and then select "Update". Microsoft Office will then search for updates and install any necessary files automatically.

Microsoft Office Updates

Method 4: Remove old Office licenses

If you have old Office licenses and want to remove them before installing a new version, follow these steps:

Step 1: Locate Microsoft Office Installation Directory

Open File Explorer.and navigate to "Program Files" or "Program Files (x86)" depending on your system.

Look for a folder named "Office16" (for newer versions) or "Office15" (for older versions). Double-click on it to open.

Step 2: Copy the Installation Path

Copy the path of the Office directory. You can do this by clicking on the address bar and copying the path.

Window Explorer Copy File Path

Step 3: Open Command Prompt as Administrator

Press the Windows key and type "cmd" and right-click on "Command Prompt".

From the context menu, choose "Run as administrator" and then click on "Yes" to confirm.

Open Command Prompt

Step 4: Change Directory to Office Folder

In the Command Prompt, type “cd” followed by a space and then right-click to paste the path you copied.

Hit Enter to change the directory.

Command Prompt Change Directory to Office Folder

Step 5 : Check the Directory

Type “dir” and press Enter to confirm you're in the correct directory. You should see files related to Microsoft Office.

Command Prompt Check Directory

Step 6 : Uninstall the Office Product Key

Paste the provided command into the Command Prompt:

cscript ospp.vbs /unpkey:

with the actual five characters you noted earlier and then press “Enter”.

Command Prompt Uninstall the Office Product Key

Step 7: Verify Successful Uninstallation

Confirm that the Office product key has been successfully uninstalled.

 Command Prompt Office 365 Successfully Uninstalled

Step 8 : Uninstall Microsoft Office

Initiate the process by searching for the Control Panel in the search bar.

Open the Control Panel and navigate to the "Uninstall" option under the Programs section.

Locate your Office program, right-click on it, and select "Uninstall" to remove it from your system.

Uninstalling Microsoft Office on Windows

Step 9: Install Newer Version:

After successful uninstallation, visit the official Microsoft website using your web browser.

Note: Commands and steps may slightly vary based on your Windows version. Ensure you have the necessary permissions to perform administrative tasks.

Method 5: Reinstall Office 365

If nothing else seems to be working, consider reinstalling as a last resort. While it can be a hassle and time-consuming, starting from scratch may effectively resolve the issue and prevent further problems.

Step 1: Begin by accessing the Control Panel through the search bar on your Windows desktop.

Step 2: Once in the Control Panel, navigate to the "Programs" section and locate the option labeled "Uninstall a program". Click on it to proceed. Note: The location of this option may vary depending on your Windows version.

Step 3: Find your Office program from the list of installed applications, then right-click on it and select "Uninstall" to begin the removal process from your system.

Step 4: Upon successful uninstallation, open your preferred web browser and visit the official Microsoft website.

Windows 11 Uninstall Microsoft Office

Step 5: Sign in with your Microsoft account credentials and proceed to download the Office application suitable for your Windows version.

Step 6: After downloading and installing the Office application, launch any Office app, sign in with your Microsoft account, and begin utilizing the Office suite for your productivity needs.

Steps to Activate Office 365 with Product Key

Activating your Microsoft Office 2016 product with the product key is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a seamless activation experience:

Step 1: Open any Microsoft Office 2016 app on your system and navigate to the Account tab.

Step 2: Click "Activate Product" as Microsoft Office 2016 is initially not activated.

Microsoft Office 2016 Activate Product

Step 3: Choose "I don't want to sign in or create an account" and proceed.

Microsoft set up Office dialog

Step 4: Insert your product key in the provided window to activate Microsoft Office 2016.

Microsoft use Product Key

Step 5: If Microsoft Office 2016 is not installed, visit the Office setup page in your browser and follow the activation steps.

Step 6: Sign in or link a new email address to your Microsoft Office 2016 subscription and then click on “Next”.

Microsoft Office Sign in

Step 7: Once logged in, go to the Microsoft Account page, view subscription details, and click "Install" to install Microsoft Office apps.

 Microsoft Install Office Apps

Step 8: Follow the installation steps, open any Office app, click "Sign in", and log in with your registered account.

 Microsoft Office 2016 sign in

Step 9: Review the email ID in the Activate Office window and click "Next".

Microsoft Activate Office 2016

Step 10: Upon successful activation, a Product Activated dialog box will appear. Click OK and enjoy unrestricted access to Microsoft Office 2016.

Microsoft Office 2016 activated

Use Best Free Alternative to Office 365

Microsoft Office stands as an industry standard, coveted by many. However, for newcomers, especially those diving into the 365 version, navigating its complexities can feel like scaling a steep learning curve, even for those accustomed to older iterations. Unfortunately, Microsoft Office often positions itself primarily for professional users. Yet, amidst this landscape, numerous office suites emerge, aiming to cater to users across all proficiency levels. Among them, WPS Office shines as a standout choice, offering exceptional value within the office suite market.

WPS Office

It accommodates both beginners and seasoned professionals alike, fostering a user-friendly environment. Installation is swift, requiring just a few minutes, and the added benefit to it is that; no cumbersome product keys or activation processes; it's entirely free and compatible with a wide array of systems.

How to Open and Save Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint in WPS Office

Whether you're working with Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, or PowerPoint presentations, WPS Office has you covered. Open, edit, and share these files effortlessly without worrying about compatibility issues.

Step 1: To access your files, open WPS Office and click the "Files" tab in the left-hand panel.

Step 2: Whether it's a Word document, Excel spreadsheet, PowerPoint presentation, or even a PDF, you'll find them all neatly organized here. Open any file with a simple click.

WPS Office open file

Step 3: Your selected file has been opened successfully. Feel free to make any edits you need.

Step 4: To save your changes and keep the current file format, click "Menu" and then select "Save".

WPS Office save file

How to Edit PDF in WPS Office

Unleash your PDF potential! Go free with WPS. Convert, merge, edit, organize - become a ninja with this helpful guide.

Step 1: Access the PDF you wish to alter using WPS Office.

Step 2: You can change your PDFs with the Edit tab. Users can change captions, callouts, and photos for impactful communication.

WPS PDF Edit tab

Step 3: Go to the Fill & Sign tab if you’d like to add a signature in your PDF.

WPS PDF Fill & Sign

Step 4: Hit "Menu" and "Save" to keep your PDF updates safe.

 WPS PDF Save PDF

Note: Secure backups by clicking CTRL + S to protect your PDF edits.

Streamline your workflow, skyrocket your productivity using WPS Office as your free key.

Use Word, Excel, and PPT for FREE, No Ads.

Edit PDF files with the powerful PDF toolkit.

Microsoft-like interface. Easy to learn. 100% Compatibility.

Boost your productivity with WPS's abundant free Word, Excel, PPT, and CV templates.

Q1. What security risks are associated with unactivated Office 365?

Unactivated Office 365 lacks crucial security updates, exposing your data to potential exploits, malware, and threats, compromising both data integrity and user privacy.

Q2. Can I activate Office 365 on multiple devices?

Yes, you can activate Office 365 on multiple devices, subject to the terms of your subscription. However, be aware that certain subscription plans may have limitations on the number of devices allowed for activation. Always check your specific plan details to ensure compliance with licensing terms.

Q3. Does Office 365 activation require an internet connection?

Yes, a stable internet connection is essential for Office 365 activation. The software requires internet access to verify your subscription and download necessary updates as part of the activation process. Ensure a reliable connection to complete the activation successfully.

Work Efficiently With WPS Office

Microsoft Office often comes with a hefty workload, particularly when it involves installation, activation, and licensing processes. It can be a tiresome endeavor especially, when the Microsoft Office won’t activate. However, WPS Office presents itself as a compelling alternative. Not only does it boast all the advanced capabilities found in the latest office suites, but it also does so with remarkable lightweightness. This means you can enjoy top-notch features with ease and comfort, without anything hindering your productivity. Download WPS Office now and experience a seamless transition to enhanced productivity.

  • 1. How to Fix Pictures Won't Print in Word - Best Guide
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  • 4. Why Windows 7 Won't Update After Reinstall_ A Solution
  • 5. ​Why Is Microsoft 2016 Won’t Activate and How to Fix it? - A Comprehensive Guide
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how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.

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    how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

  2. How To Fix No Internet Connection issue in Microsoft Office

    how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

  3. How To Fix No Internet Connection issue in Microsoft Office

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  4. 10 Ways to Fix Internet Connection in Windows 10

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  5. How To Fix No Internet Connection issue in Microsoft Office

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  6. Fix: Office 365 No Internet Connection Error

    how to fix no internet connection issue in microsoft office

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COMMENTS

  1. Office 365 says Not Connected to Internet

    Open Start > Settings > Update & security > Troubleshoot Scroll down Click Network adapters Click Run the Troubleshooter When complete, restart to see if the problem is resolved. If that does not work Press Windows key + X Click Device Manager Expand Network Adapters Select the Network card listed, Select "Update Driver"

  2. How To Fix No Internet Connection issue in Microsoft Office

    Network related services Corrupted System Files Corrupt Office 365 app In this article, let us discuss different ways to fix the "No Internet Connection " error in Office 365 Table of Contents Fix 1: Turn-Off the VPN service Fix 2: Disable IPv4 Checksum Offload Fix 3 : Change to a Public DNS Fix 4: Restart the Network Services

  3. Fix: Office 365 No Internet Connection Error

    Method 1: Disable Ethernet Adapter The first thing that you should do when you face the error message is to disable your primary ethernet adapter. Once you do that, you can turn it on again and then launch MS Office. This can often solve network connectivity issues and it might solve your MS Office connection issue as well.

  4. No Network Connection Please check your network settings and try

    Here are some steps you can take to try and resolve this issue: 1. Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can help resolve activation issues. Try restarting your Windows 10 PC and then attempt to activate Office again. 2.

  5. How to Fix Office 365 App Says No Internet Connection Error

    Struggling with the 'No Internet Connection' error in your Office 365 apps? Watch our step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and resolve connectivity issues, so ...

  6. Fixes or workarounds for recent Office issues

    You can send feedback directly to our Office teams: For Office 2016 on Windows 10 users, open an Office app, and click File > Feedback. For Mac users, in Office 2016 for Mac, click the smiley icon in the upper-right corner.

  7. False "No Internet Access" keeping Office apps from activating

    Only has Windows defender. No other firewall software. One last thing. The registry entry: EnableActiveProbing REG_DWORD0x00000000 (0) denotes that NCSI is disabled, yet this is the value that this user has. I tried setting it to 1, but after reboot, it's back to 0. Spice (8) Reply (17) flag Report lancorpnetwork jalapeno

  8. Office incorrectly reports no internet connection.

    Let's repair the Office suite following instructions mentioned in the below link and connect to the internet through wired connection and verify the result: http://office.microsoft.com/en-gb/outlook-help/repair-office-programs-HA010357402.aspx Hope it helps you in resolving the issue. Reply with the result for further assistance. Thank you.

  9. Office 365 No Internet Connection Error FIX [Tutorial]

    How To Fix No Internet Connection issue in Microsoft Office

  10. Force Office 365 to activate even when PC has incorrect "no internet

    The network status of Windows 10 would affect activation of Office 365. I think it's best to repair network icon to display correctly first. Please check whether the following threads could be helpful. Windows 10 thinks there is no internet connection, False "No Internet Access" keeping Office apps from activating -

  11. Fix Outlook connection problems in Microsoft 365

    Learn Microsoft Exchange Fix Outlook connection problems for Microsoft 365 account Article 07/22/2022 9 contributors Applies to: Exchange Online Feedback In this article Let us fix your Outlook connection problems for you Fix software update and profile issues

  12. Connection issues in sign-in after update to Office 2016 build 16.0

    This is not an intermittent network issue because of the loss of a Wi-Fi connection or a wake-up after hibernation and initialization of the network stack. Then, to determine whether your issue is due to network environment or local firewall/antivirus software, follow these steps:

  13. How To Fix No Internet Connection issue in Microsoft Office

    How To Fix No Internet Connection issue in Microsoft Office Set-NetAdapterAdvancedProperty Eth* -DisplayName "IPv4 Checksum Offload" ...more ...more Microsoft Word for Beginners: 4-Hour...

  14. Troubleshooting Wi-Fi connection on your Surface

    Windows 11 Windows 10. To fix Wi-Fi connection problems on your Surface: Solution 1: Turn airplane mode on and then back off. Solution 2: Check your network on another device. Solution 3: Restart your network equipment. Solution 4: Run Windows Network Troubleshooter. Solution 5: Force a restart for your Surface.

  15. No Internet Connection? How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues

    1. Restart your modem and router or internet gateway (modem/router combo) An equipment restart is the golden rule of internet troubleshooting. This should always be your first step; it's simple, easy, and incredibly effective. See instructions. 2. Check your wires and cables Loose or damaged cables can cause a wide range of internet issues.

  16. Troubleshoot Outlook for Windows issues

    From the Start menu, select new Outlook for Windows. Select the arrow to expand the list option in Start. Select Uninstall to begin the uninstall process. To reinstall new Outlook: Open classic Outlook for Windows. In the top corner, you'll see a toggle to Try the new Outlook . Select this toggle to download the new app and you will switch to ...

  17. Microsoft new Teams says "No Network connection. Please check your

    Run Office Activation Troubleshooter: Windows 10 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can help diagnose and resolve activation problems. To run it, go to "Settings" > "Update & Security" > "Troubleshoot." Look for an option related to Office activation or product key issues and follow the on-screen instructions. 3.

  18. How to Fix Office 365 Won't Activate

    Step 1: Locate Microsoft Office Installation Directory. Open File Explorer.and navigate to "Program Files" or "Program Files (x86)" depending on your system. Look for a folder named "Office16" (for newer versions) or "Office15" (for older versions). Double-click on it to open. Step 2: Copy the Installation Path.