How to fix install error with updates for Word, Excel, and Powerpoint to 16.104 on Mac OS Tahoe?

LWegner 0 Reputation points
2026-01-03T22:56:32.0066667+00:00

Hello,

I am trying to install update 16.104 to Word, Excel, and Powerpoint on my MacBook Air OS Tahoe 26.2. I keep getting an install error message. I have tried turning off Malwarebytes for my Mac to see if that made a difference. It did not. Everything else on my computer is up to date.

Microsoft 365 and Office | Install, redeem, activate | For home | MacOS
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  1. Bob Jones AKA CyberTaz MVP 431.2K Reputation points
    2026-01-04T02:23:25.09+00:00

    This could be a server-side issue. Have you tried more than once?

    Another possibility is that your screenshot shows MAU as being up-to-date even though it indicates 4.81 bur 4.81.2 is more recent. Use this link to install the more current release, restart the Mac, then try updating again: Download Microsoft AutoUpdate 4.81.2 Package

    1 person found this answer helpful.

  2. Q&A Assist
    2026-01-03T22:56:41.98+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    To troubleshoot the installation error for updates to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint on your Mac, you can try the following steps:

    1. Check for Disk Space: Ensure that you have enough disk space available on your Mac. Insufficient space can cause installation errors.
    2. Use Microsoft AutoUpdate (MAU): Make sure you are using Microsoft AutoUpdate to check for updates. You can manually trigger it by opening any Office application, going to the Help menu, and selecting Check for Updates.
    3. Repair Disk Permissions: Sometimes, permission issues can cause installation problems. You can use the Repair Disk Permissions feature in Disk Utility:
      • Open Disk Utility from the Utilities folder.
      • Select your primary hard disk and click on the First Aid tab.
      • Choose Repair Disk Permissions.
    4. Reinstall Office: If the issue persists, consider uninstalling and then reinstalling Office. You can find instructions on how to do this in the Microsoft support documentation.
    5. Check for Conflicting Software: Since you mentioned turning off Malwarebytes, ensure that no other security software is interfering with the installation. You may want to temporarily disable any other antivirus or security applications.
    6. Update macOS: Ensure your macOS is fully updated, as compatibility issues can arise with older versions.

    If you continue to experience issues, you may want to consult Microsoft support for further assistance.


    References:

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  3. Bob Jones AKA CyberTaz MVP 431.2K Reputation points
    2026-01-03T23:19:30.24+00:00

    You're likely to receive a more directed reply if you provide complete details including the specific wording of the error message. A screenshot would be most helpful. The AI bot only regurgitates a broad range of guesses which may or may not be on point.


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