Microsoft Copilot has revolutionized how we interact with Office apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. But what happens when this AI assistant suddenly stops responding? Don’t panic. This comprehensive troubleshooting guide walks you through practical solutions to get Copilot back on track.
1. Verify Your Internet Connection
Copilot requires a stable internet connection to function.
Check connectivity by:
– Testing browser access
– Running network diagnostics (Windows: Winsock Reset)
– Ensuring no firewall/proxy blocks Microsoft servers
2. Check Microsoft 365 Subscription Status
Copilot availability depends on your Microsoft subscription:
– Microsoft 365 Business Premium/E3/E5 required
– Enterprise-level accounts need admin-enabled permissions
Verify at account.microsoft.com/services
3. Update Office Applications
Outdated software causes compatibility issues:
1. Open any Office app
2. Navigate to File > Account > Update Options
3. Select Update Now
4. Restart all Office applications
4. Clear Office Cache Files
Corrupted cache disrupts AI integrations:
1. Close all Office apps
2. Press Windows + R
3. Type %localappdata%MicrosoftOffice16.0Wef
4. Delete all contents in this folder
5. Reopen applications
5. Rebuild Office Installation
For persistent issues:
1. Navigate to Control Panel > Programs
2. Select Microsoft 365 > Change
3. Choose Online Repair option
4. Allow complete reinstallation (30-45 minutes)
6. Check System Requirements
Copilot demands:
– Windows 11 or Windows 10 22H2+
– 8GB RAM minimum (16GB recommended)
– Latest Edge/Chrome browsers if using web version
7. Verify Feature Availability
Microsoft gradually rolls out features:
– Check Microsoft 365 Message Center
– Review admin compliance settings
– Confirm regional availability (not supported in all countries)
8. Examine Group Policy Settings
Enterprise environments may restrict AI features:
1. Check Administrative Templates > Microsoft Office 365
2. Verify AI/ML features aren’t disabled
3. Consult IT department if necessary
9. Test with Different Files
Local file corruption can trigger failures:
– Create new test document
– Attempt Copilot functions
– If successful, repair original file through Open and Repair
When All Else Fails
If problems persist:
1. Collect error screenshots
2. Note exact error messages
3. Contact Microsoft Support via 365 admin portal
4. Reference incident ID MS-COPLT-ERR[number]
Most Copilot issues resolve through systematic troubleshooting. Start with basic connectivity checks before progressing to complex repairs. Remember that Microsoft frequently updates Copilot’s functionality, making occasional adjustments essential for optimal performance.
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