Cannot open HTTPS hyperlinks to PDF documents from Word 2016

Question

Hi,

We are having a strange issue.

I've tried searching, and can see some similar issues, but no real resolutions.

I have narrowed the issue down to:

Windows 10 (Enterprise) 64-bit

MS Office 2016 32-bit (Part of Office 365 E3)

Create a Word document, and add a hyperlink to a PDF file hosted using HTTPS (e.g. https://domain.com/document.pdf)

If the link is http, it works.

If the link is to a normal website, it works.

Only when it is both PDF and HTTPS, it fails.

If I change the https in the hyperlink to http, then the document will open, though it gives this message first:

Any ideas/suggestions?

Thanks,

Anthony

Answer 1

Hi Joshua,

I mentioned that in one of my earlier posts (possibly in the linked blog page that I created)

That fix is suitable for Home users, but not for Corporate or Business, as we do not control our customers' computers.

That fix also causes other issues (Not linking to office documents): https://www.sevenforums.com/microsoft-office/408695-cannot-follow-hyperlink-office-document.html

The referenced KB 280680 does not seem to exist anymore.

Thanks,

Anthony

Answer 2

Hi Anthony,

It seems the issue is not related to network environment and Word setting. Could you please provide the detailed OS version to help us further investigate the issue?

Regards,

Joshua

Answer 3

Hi Joshua,

The Operating system is Windows 10 Enterprise

Additional Info: Version 1703, Build 15063.850

Answer 4

Hi Chaz,

We understand your frustration. Since the official document provide the solution in Error message when clicking hyperlink in Office: "Cannot locate the Internet server or proxy server", it seems to be the only solution to your situation. As you could not accept the solution, then there is no other choice. Your understanding is appreciated.

Regards,

Joshua