Why Does Microsoft Word 2016/2019 Keep Freezing Despite Fix Suggestions?

The infamous freezing issue in Microsoft Word has become a recurring headache for many users who continue to grapple with this problem. Despite trying all the suggested fixes, the application continues to lag and crash. While some may argue that Microsoft Office in general is flawed, the search for alternatives and customer support may not always yield satisfying results.

Common Causes of Microsoft Word Freezing

Corrupted MS Word Files

One of the primary reasons why Microsoft Word 2016 and 2019 keep freezing is a corrupted MS Word file. Such files may contain harmful code or errors that trigger the application to behave unpredictably. Opening large files can exacerbate the issue, making the program less stable.

Low RAM and Simultaneous Application Usage

Insufficient RAM (Random Access Memory) can also contribute to Word freezing. If you are running multiple applications simultaneously on your PC, the demand on your system’s resources can cause the program to slow down or crash. Ensuring that your system has sufficient RAM is crucial for optimal performance.

Corrupted MS Word Package or Hard Drive Issues

Another reason for the freezing issue could be corruption in the MS Word package or a failing hard drive. If you notice that Word is consistently freezing, it may be worth checking if your hard drive is performing well or if there are any signs of corruption in the Word application itself.

Troubleshooting Tips

Clear Auto-recovery Folder

Clearing the Auto-recovery folder is a straightforward step that can help resolve the issue. The Auto-recovery folder stores backup files that Word creates when it encounters an error. While these files are usually not necessary, clearing them can free up space and potentially resolve stability issues.

Boot in Safe Mode

Booting your Mac in Safe Mode can help you determine if the issue is related to third-party applications or settings that interfere with Word. By starting the system in a restricted environment, you can isolate the problem and identify any potential conflicts.

Install MS Word Updates

Ensuring that you have the latest updates for MS Word is essential. Microsoft regularly releases updates that address bugs and improve stability. Keeping your application up to date is a simple yet effective way to prevent freezing and crashes.

Hardware Considerations

In some cases, hardware issues can cause Microsoft Word to freeze. A failing hard drive, for example, can lead to erratic behavior. If you suspect that there may be an underlying hardware issue, it is advisable to get your machine checked by a reputable technician.

Managing Memory and Add-ins

Insufficient memory can also cause Microsoft Office applications to freeze. Verify that your paging file size is adequate or set it to allow Windows to manage it. Adding more RAM can significantly improve performance. If you have misbehaving add-ins, removing them can also help. Even if you have an ill-tempered add-in, having sufficient memory can calm it down.

Word’s ability to open multiple instances of itself can also contribute to freezing. If you have several documents open at the same time, you may have several applications of Word running. Try to minimize the number of open documents until you get your memory situation sorted out.

By following these troubleshooting steps and hardware considerations, you can address the freezing issue in Microsoft Word 2016 and 2019. While alternatives like Google Docs exist, ensuring that your system is optimized for MS Word can provide a more seamless user experience.