This file can't be previewed because of an error in Microsoft Word previewer -- WORKAROUND

Question

When I use the preview pane in the Windows 10 File Explorer, on some Word documents I see the message "This file can't be previewed because of an error in Microsoft Word previewer" in the preview pane.

[I'm using Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise on Windows 10 Pro]

While investigating, I noticed that I could preview some Word docs, just not others. I also noticed that if I opened the files I couldn't preview, and enabled editing on them, I could preview them. Since I use the preview pane to check titles without having to open each file (to save time), it defeats the purpose to have to open each file, enable editing on it, and then save it again.

The issue for me was resolved with Protected View settings:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/what-is-protected-view-d6f09ac7-e6b9-4495-8e43-2bbcdbcb6653

Turns out:

• the previewer needs a file to be editable
• downloaded files by default are un-editable due to the Protected View settings in the MS Office Trust Center: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/view-my-privacy-options-in-the-microsoft-office-trust-center-d672876e-20d3-4ad3-a178-343d044e05c8

My solution was to temporarily turn off the setting that enables "Protected View for files originating from the Internet." I found that setting for Word here: File >> Options (may need to look in More...) >> Trust Center >> Trust Center Settings ... >> Protected View >> un-check the setting

NOTE: I only recommend turning this setting off if you've downloaded files from a trusted source. And it's best to enable that setting again once you're done, so it's protecting you from future file downloads.

Note: I found this question already posted by others, but the solutions didn't work for me and those questions were locked, so I'm adding this new question & solution in case it helps others.

Answer 1

Thank you! That was driving me crazy. I even un-installed and re-installed Office 365!

I'll never understand why certain errors don't give you better information. That's a real specific thing. It should have a specific error message.

Answer 2

Unfortunately, by posting the solution as part of your question, you make it impossible for anyone to mark your solution as the answer. Moreover, by posting it as a question rather than a discussion, you make it impossible for anyone to mark it as helpful.

Answer 3

Many thanks! no other solutions had worked but this not only made intuitive sense... it worked.

Answer 4

Dear Cate,

Greetings! Thank you for posting in the Microsoft forum.

We are am glad to know that you resolved the issue and thanks for sharing the solution with the community, I am sure this will help other community members who have the same issue.

Should you need help with any other issue, please feel free to post in the forum.

With sincerest regards,

Neha Singh | Microsoft Community Moderator

Answer 5

Cate,

Thanks soooo much! I was pulling my hair out (and I don't have much too work with already).

Cheers