Unable to double-click and edit in Excel desktop, any workarounds?

Question

I am unable to double-click and edit cells in Excel even though the box is checked to allow it on my new Dell computer OptiPlex 7020. It was working on my OptiPlex 5020. I was using office professional 2020 on both computers.

And I just upgraded to office professional desktop 2024 and I'm still having the same problem.

I have verified that the box to allow editing is checked. I have tried checking and unchecking it. I have closed and opened office and restarted my computer. It happens with new and old spreadsheets alike. It happens when one or multiple spreadsheets are open.

Answer 1

Hi,

Does this issue occur with all Excel workbooks, such as new blank file?

Which version of Windows system are you running on OptiPlex 7020 and OptiPlex 5020?

• You may go to Windows Settings > System > About, check the Windows Specifications.

Because this issue occurs with 2 different versions of Excel, I suggest you check your mouse first.

• If conditions permit, it is recommended that you change the mouse for testing.
• Or you may update/rollback mouse driver.

Then please run Excel in Safe Mode for a check. Safe Mode can help us troubleshoot the COM Add-ins.

• You can press and hold on Ctrl key, click or double-click Excel app icon, until it asks if you want to start it in safe mode, then please release Ctrl key and click "Yes".
• If this issue goes away in Safe Mode, you can click: File > Options > Add-ins > Manage COM Add-ins, click Go. Clear the check boxes for any enabled COM add-ins, select OK.
• Locate to C:\Users\<User Name>\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Excel\XLSTART

and C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16\XLStart, move the files or folders from "Xlstart" folder to Desktop if there is one.

If this issue persists, it's recommended to delete following registry of Excel.

• HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Excel\Options (Serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly. Before you modify it, please remember to back up the registry for restoration in case problems occur.)

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