Microsoft Office applications won't open when using public wifi

Question

This is the strangest situation I've dealt with. Every time I attempt to bring work to a cafe with a wifi hotspot (note that the connection is usually horrendous), my Microsoft Office applications won't respond. They freeze up and any report I try to send out also fails. I've attempted opening multiple documents, so I know it's not a corrupted file. I don't even need wifi to use these applications, so I feel like I'm going crazy. It's happened at three different public places with wifi hotspots. When I return home, they work just fine and my files open without hesitation. Has anyone experienced this before? What could possibly be going on?

Answer 1

It's probably because of the DNS server that your WiFi connection is using. Set your Mac up to use Public DNS server, such as Google's.

How to Use OpenDNS or Google DNS on Your Mac

Answer 2

Hi,

This issue might be caused by system conflict. For us to know more, please answer the following:

• Were there any changes made prior to the issue?
• Are you getting any error messages or pop-up message while trying to use Office apps?

In the meantime, we suggest trying to repair your Office application. Check this article to know more on how to repair Office apps.

We'll keep an eye out on your response.