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What is Osppsvc.exe & How to Fix its Errors?
Get things running with our expert solutions
6 min. read
Updated onApril 1, 2024
updated onApril 1, 2024
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Of the wide array ofbackground processes running in Windows, most perform a critical function, either directly linked to Windows or for a third-party app. But a few are known to trigger more errors than others. One that fits the category is osppsvc.exe.
Whilehigh CPU usageis one, most users reported that the osppsvc.exe process could not be located when trying to launch Microsoft Office, and as a result,Office wouldn’t open. Keep reading to find out what osppsvc does and effective ways to fix its errors!
What is Office Software Protection Platform?
The osppsvc.exe process stands for Office Software Protection Platform and is a vital component of Microsoft Office. First introduced in Office 13, the component has been a part of all future versions.
The process plays a critical role, i.e., to acquire and enforce the digital licenses of Microsoft Office applications. For those wondering where is the osppsvc file, it can be found in the following location:C:\Program Files\Common Files\microsoft shared\OfficeSoftwareProtectionPlatform
As per our research, you shouldn’t disable or terminate the osppsvc.exe, given the role it plays, but it, too, ideally shouldn’t throw errors orconsume 100% CPU. So, if you are facing problems with the process, a few quick solutions will help!
How do I fix osppsvc.exe errors?
Before we move to the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones first:
If none work, move to the fixes listed next.
1. Terminate the process
If find come across osppsvc.exeError 1920and can’t open Microsoft Office, a quick fix is to terminate the process.
2. Scan for malware
Before you take any troubleshooting measures, it’s imperative to identify whether osppsvc.exe is a virus or poses any threat. And an easy way for it is to run a malware scan using the built-in Windows Security. Besides, you could go with areliable third-party antivirus solution.
3. Repair corrupt system files
Corrupt system filescan often lead to trouble loading files critical to third-party apps, and running the DISM tool and SFC scan will help fix things.
Even better, you can tryreliable repair softwareto help you find system stability issues, such as corrupt or malfunctioning files, and replace them with new Windows elements.
4. Modify the registry
The number listed underValue datais the amount of time in seconds theOffice Software Protection Platformcontinues to run after an action is performed. Reducing this time period will help fix high CPU consumption due to osppsvc.exe.
5. Repair Microsoft Office
If the process is corrupt or triggering major errors, you can download and repair osppsvc.exe issues by running anOnline Repairof the Microsoft Office 365 suite. This will re-download any problematic files and get things running.
6. Create a new user profile
A few users reported that the problem lay with thecorrupt user profile, andcreating a new local account, thensetting the account as administrator, got things up and running. So, do try it and check whether the osppsvc.exe errors are fixed in Windows.
7. Upgrade to the latest version of Microsoft Office
In case nothing else works, the last option is to upgrade the version of Microsoft Office. Every few years, Microsoft comes with an upgrade that introduces new features and enhances security and usability.
But other than the two, upgrades increase compatibility with the OS. So, check for the latest version and download the Office Suite. You can find more information on theofficial website.
That’s all! One of these solutions should have helped fix osppsvc.exe errors in Windows, and you should now be able to run Microsoft Office seamlessly.
If you want to switch to another suite, check themost preferred Microsoft Office alternatives.
For any queries or to share what worked for you, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:Fix EXE file errors,Office 365
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
