Applies ToExcel for Microsoft 365

Last Updated: April 16, 2025

ISSUE

You may run into the following error when trying to add or edit a Microsoft Query in Excel:

Error: “Microsoft Query could not be started because it isn’t installed. You can install Query by running the installation program you used to install Office or Excel. The Query option is in the Office Tools category.”

STATUS: WORKAROUND

The issue can occur if Dynamic Data Exchange Server lookup is disabled. To enable Dynamic Data Exchange Server lookup:

  1. In Excel go to File > Options > Trust Center.

  2. Select the Trust Center Settings button, then select External Content.

  3. Under Security Settings for Dynamic Data Exchange, check the box for the Enable Dynamic Data Exchange Server Lookup setting.

  4. Select OK, and OK again.

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See Also

Fixes or workarounds for recent issues in Excel for Windows

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