![ActiveX will be disabled by default in Microsoft Office 2024 [MC884011]](https://mwpro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pexels-jenna-hamra-248942-804416-1024x683.webp)
We’re making some changes to the handling of ActiveX objects in the Microsoft Office client apps.
Starting in new Office 2024, the default configuration setting for ActiveX objects will change from Prompt me before enabling all controls with minimal restrictions to Disable all controls without notification. This change applies to the Win32 desktop versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio.
[When this will happen:]
For new Office 2024, this change will happen immediately when it’s released in October 2024.
For Microsoft 365 apps, this change will rollout in stages beginning in April 2025.
[How this will affect your organization:]
Users will no longer be able to create or interact with ActiveX objects in Office documents when this change is implemented. Some existing ActiveX objects will still be visible as a static image, but it will not be possible to interact with them. In non-commercial SKUs of Office, users will see this notification when an ActiveX object is blocked by the new default behavior:
The new default setting is equivalent to the existing DisableAllActiveX group policy setting.
[What you need to do to prepare:]
When this change takes effect, if you need to use ActiveX controls in Office documents, you can change back to the previous default behavior using any one of the following methods:
- In the Trust Center Settings dialog, under ActiveX Settings, select the Prompt me before enabling all controls with minimal restrictions option.
- In the registry, set HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\Common\Security\DisableAllActiveX to 0 (REG_DWORD).
- Set the Disable All ActiveX group policy setting to 0.
Source: Microsoft
![Exchange Properties Limits addition [MC884017]](https://mwpro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pexels-googledeepmind-17484975-150x150.webp)
![Microsoft PowerPoint: QuickStarter feature retires starting October 2024 [MC884762]](https://mwpro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pexels-tara-winstead-8386365-150x150.webp)
The upcoming update in Microsoft Office 2024 will have a significant impact on both admins and users. For admins, it means a shift in how ActiveX objects are handled within the Office client apps. They will need to ensure that their organization is prepared for this change and may need to adjust settings accordingly.
As for users, the default configuration setting for ActiveX objects will change, leading to a different experience when working with Office documents. They won’t be able to create or interact with ActiveX objects as they did before. However, some existing ActiveX objects will still be visible as static images.
In terms of criticality, this update is quite important as it affects how users interact with Office documents and could potentially impact workflows for organizations that heavily rely on ActiveX controls.
Remember, if you find yourself needing to use ActiveX controls after the update, you can always revert to the previous default behavior through various methods like adjusting settings in the Trust Center or modifying registry settings.
Overall, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes and be prepared to adapt to ensure a smooth transition when the update rolls out. And hey, who knows, maybe this change will lead to some interesting new ways of working with Office documents!