Microsoft Office suddenly needs to reactivate? A bad update might be why | usagoldmines.com

Microsoft recently released optional out-of-band update KB5002907, intended to bring outdated versions of Microsoft 365 Apps back in sync and continuing to receive updates. However, Microsoft quickly halted the rollout of this update due to a serious issue.

This update was for Windows PCs on which Microsoft 365 Apps were more than 90 days out of date and either on the Current Channel or Monthly Enterprise Channel. Installing the update would allow those apps to be updated again and switch to a more current update channel.

KB5002907 was available via Windows Update. It wasn’t an update for the Windows operating system, nor was it installed automatically. It could only be installed manually.

If you installed it, you may have noticed some issues afterward. Here’s what Microsoft says in an updated note for the patch:

Microsoft has received reports of unexpected results on some devices running Office 2016 or Office 2019 after this update is installed. This update was intended to address issues with devices not receiving updates to Microsoft 365 Apps. As part of the repair action applied by this update, some devices were left without functioning versions of Microsoft 365 Apps or Office. To prevent additional devices from being affected, we have paused the rollout of this update. If your device is affected, use the appropriate resolution:

• In some cases, the product may appear to be unlicensed. Users should reactivate their purchased product: Activate Office for Windows
• In rare cases, the product may have been removed. Users should reinstall their purchased product: Download and install or reinstall Office 2021, Office 2019, or Office 2016

If the issue persists after you complete the appropriate resolution steps, contact Microsoft Support. When you contact support, describe the issue and the steps you have already completed so that we can connect you with the appropriate assistance.

A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed the paused rollout to BleepingComputer: “We are aware of these reports and have paused the update while we investigate. Additional customer guidance will be communicated via appropriate channels.”