Excel file doesn't open from the shared drive

Question

Hello Team,

I've encountered an unusual issue with Microsoft Excel. I'm currently unable to open an Excel file from a shared drive location. However, if I copy and paste the same file onto my desktop, it opens without any problems.

I have the necessary permissions to access these files, and I also have administrative privileges on my local PC.

Whenever I attempt to open the file directly from its shared location, Excel simply does not respond. I've tried several troubleshooting steps, including reinstalling Office, performing an online repair, and adding the location as a trusted location in safe mode. Unfortunately, these efforts have not resolved the issue. The problem persists even when I run Excel in safe mode or as an administrator.

Each time I try to open the file, it results in an error message stating that Excel is not responding.

I kindly request your prompt assistance in resolving this matter.

Best regards,

Ujwal

Answer 1

Hi @Ujwal Poudel,

I suggest you add the path of the shared network drive to the Trusted Locations.

Please go to Excel > File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > Trusted Locations > tick the box of "Allow Trusted Locations on my network", then click Add new location, type in the path and then tick the box of "Subfolders of this location are also trusted".

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Answer 2

Hi @Ujwal Poudel please open a blank Excel file and go to File>Options>Advanced>Then scroll down to General menu and check the box for [Ignore other applications that use Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE)] then select ok. Open the file from the remote link and let me know how it goes.

Please remember to mark as an answer if you succeed.

Answer 3

Hi,

Here are some additional methods for you to try-

1. Check that your network connection is stable and free of interruptions. When opening files from a shared drive, a slow or unreliable network connection can cause Excel to become unresponsive. Try accessing other shared files to see if the problem is specific to this Excel file or a network issue.
2. Some antivirus and security software may block network access and file operations. Disable your antivirus and firewall software temporarily to see if they are causing the problem.
3. Check that the Excel file you're attempting to open is in a format that works with your version of Excel. Older file formats (for example, .xls) may be incompatible with newer versions of Excel.
4. Disable any third-party Excel add-ins that could interfere with Excel's ability to open files from a shared drive. This can be done by going to "File" > "Options" > "Add-Ins" and managing your add-ins.
5. Make sure your Windows operating system and Microsoft Excel are both up to date with the most recent updates and patches.

I'd suggest you also refer to this article as well.

Best Regards.