How to Prevent Microsoft 365 from Opening in Your Browser

Key Notes

  • Changing settings in Outlook and Office apps can direct files to open in desktop versions.
  • The ‘Open with’ option allows for quick app selection for specific file types.
  • Changing Edge settings can eliminate browser-based openings for Office files.

Prevent Office File Links from Launching in Browsers

In today’s digital workspace, opening Microsoft Office files directly in the desktop applications instead of a web browser can enhance productivity for many users. This guide details how to configure settings across Outlook, OneDrive, and other Office applications to ensure a seamless user experience.

Steps to Prevent Microsoft Office File Links from Opening in a Browser

Step 1: Adjust Outlook Settings

To ensure files from Outlook open in your desktop Office apps, modify the following settings:

  • Open Outlook and navigate to File > Options.
  • Click on the Advanced tab.
  • Locate the File and browser preferences section.
  • Set the “ Open Word, Excel and PowerPoint files using ” option to Desktop.
  • Click OK to apply the changes.

Pro Tip: This adjustment allows all relevant file links clicked in Outlook to direct users straight to the respective desktop application.

Step 2: Modify Office App Preferences

To prevent Office apps such as Word or Excel from opening links in a browser, follow these steps:

  • Launch any Office application (Word, Excel, or PowerPoint).
  • Select File > Options and navigate to the Advanced tab.
  • Scroll to the File Open Preference section and choose the Desktop option.
  • If available, check the Link Handling option and select the box for Open supported hyperlinks to Office files in Office desktop apps.
  • Press OK to save.

Pro Tip: Changing these settings customizes preferences for how files open in all Office documents, ensuring minimal disruption.

Step 3: Use the Open With Option

You can set a default application for files stored in OneDrive or SharePoint using the right-click context menu:

  • Right-click the Word, Excel, or PowerPoint file in OneDrive or SharePoint.
  • Select the Open with option from the menu.
  • Choose the desired Office application and check the Always option.

This ensures that the specified file type always defaults to desktop apps instead of launching in a browser. You’ll need to repeat this process for each file type.

Additional Tips

  • Always verify that you are logged into a valid Microsoft 365 account.
  • Make sure desktop Office apps are installed properly to avoid issues.
  • Periodically check for updates in both Office and your web browser for the best experience.

Summary

Adjusting settings in Microsoft Office applications and web browsers can greatly enhance how file links are handled, steering them towards desktop applications instead of launching them in a browser. By following the straightforward steps outlined above, users can customize their file opening preferences effortlessly.

Conclusion

By adjusting settings in Outlook, Office applications, and your web browser, you can streamline your workflow, ensuring that file links always open within the desktop environment. This prevents distractions and keeps your productivity at its peak. Take these steps today to customize your Microsoft Office experience!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I revert the settings if I want to open links in a browser?

Yes, you can always go back to the settings in Outlook or the Office apps and change the file opening preferences at any time.

What if I don’t see the “Open with” option?

The option might not appear if you are working with unsupported file types or if the context menu is restricted by your organization’s IT policy.