How to Fix Microsoft Update Assistant Errors on Mac [New]

Issues like Microsoft Update Assistant errors on Mac can leave you stuck with various errors during an update, such as long update times, download errors, installation failures, and more. This post shows you a few ways to fix Microsoft Update Assistant errors on Mac without data loss.

Microsoft Update Assistant is a critical tool for Mac users to keep Microsoft 365, Office, and other Microsoft apps up to date, but it's not immune to errors. Common issues include installation failures, stuck updates, compatibility alerts, and error codes like 0x80070005 or 0x80240017.

Beyond disrupting app functionality, these errors can pose hidden data risks: failed updates may corrupt related files, and troubleshooting steps such as uninstalling software or modifying settings could accidentally delete important data. This guide provides practical, step-by-step solutions to fix Microsoft Update Assistant errors while prioritizing data safety, including targeted Mac data recovery methods for emergencies.

Fixes for Microsoft Update Assistant Errors on Mac

Before troubleshooting any software error, backing up your data is non-negotiable. It creates a safety net in case files are lost or damaged during the process. Start with these straightforward steps - they resolve most common glitches without complex changes:

• Restart Your Mac: Close all open apps, click the Apple menu in the top-left corner, and select "Restart." This clears temporary system bugs that may block the update assistant.
• Check Network Connectivity: Ensure you're on a stable Wi-Fi network (or switch to Ethernet for a wired connection). Disable VPNs or proxy servers, as they often interfere with Microsoft's update servers.
• Verify System Compatibility: Microsoft Update Assistant requires a minimum macOS version (check Microsoft's official website for the latest requirements - e.g., macOS 11 Big Sur or later for recent versions). To check your macOS version, go to "System Settings > General > About."
• Update macOS First: Outdated macOS can cause compatibility conflicts. Navigate to "System Settings > General > Software Update," install any available macOS updates, and restart your Mac before retrying the Microsoft Update Assistant.

Even with backups, data loss can happen - whether from a corrupted update, accidental file deletion during troubleshooting, or damaged documents. If you don't have a backup, reliable third-party software EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac can recover lost files:

Install the software on a different drive to prevent overwriting lost data on your Mac's main drive.

Step 1. Select the location

Select the disk where you lost data after updating to macOS Sonoma/Ventura/Monterey/Big Sur. Then, click "Search for lost files".

Step 2. Find lost data after the scan

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac will immediately scan your selected disk volume and display the scanning results on the left pane. Use the file type and file path to find wanted data on Mac.

Step 3. Recover data after macOS update

Select the target files that were unknowingly lost during or after the update and click the "Recover" button to get them all back.

Many Mac users have proved the efficacy of the tool. If you are interested in resolving the Mac files recovery issue, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, and other social media platforms!

Fix 1. Reinstall Microsoft Update Assistant:

• Open Finder, go to the "Applications" folder, find "Microsoft Update Assistant," and drag it to the Trash.
• Delete residual files to avoid conflicts: Open Finder, press "Command + Shift + G," enter ~/Library/Application Support/Microsoft/ and ~/Library/Caches/, and delete any folders related to "Update Assistant" or "Microsoft AutoUpdate."
• Visit Microsoft's official website to download the latest version of the Update Assistant, then drag the app to your Applications folder and launch it.

Fix 2. Adjust Security & Privacy Settings:

• MacOS security defaults may block Microsoft apps. Go to "System Settings > Privacy & Security > General."
• Under "Allow apps downloaded from," select "App Store and identified developers" (if not already selected).

• Scroll down to "Full Disk Access," click the "+" button, and add Microsoft Update Assistant from your Applications folder—this ensures the tool can access necessary system files.

Fix 3. Seek Apple Official Support

If your Mac's drive is corrupted (e.g., you get "disk utility can't repair this disk" errors) or data recovery software fails:

1. Contact Apple Support via the Apple website, Apple Support app, or phone.
2. Visit an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. Explain the issue (data loss after Microsoft Update Assistant error) and request professional data recovery services. Note that this may incur a fee, and success depends on the extent of drive damage.

Prevent Future Errors of Microsoft Update Assistant

Here are prevention tips for Mac users:

• Keep macOS Updated: Regularly install macOS updates to maintain compatibility with Microsoft apps. Enable automatic updates via "System Settings > General > Software Update."
• Schedule Regular Backups: Set Time Machine to back up automatically (it runs hourly by default if the backup drive is connected). For cloud backups, enable continuous syncing.
• Avoid Interrupting Updates: Never turn off your Mac or close the Update Assistant while updates are downloading or installing—this causes corruption.
• Update Microsoft Apps Manually (Optional): If the Update Assistant continues to fail, use Microsoft AutoUpdate (included with Office apps) to check for updates. Open any Microsoft app (e.g., Word), go to "Help > Check for Updates," and install updates directly.

Conclusion

Resolving Microsoft Update Assistant errors on Mac doesn't have to be stressful—with a structured approach that prioritizes data safety, most issues can be fixed efficiently. By starting with essential backups, progressing through basic to advanced troubleshooting, and addressing specific error codes directly, you'll minimize downtime and protect your critical files. Should data loss occur, the included professional recovery software and Apple's official support provide reliable safety nets to retrieve lost or corrupted data.