Copilot not responding
Summary
This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: Copilot not responding. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.
Common Causes
Microsoft Copilot Not Responding - Troubleshooting
Overview
Copilot is Microsoft's AI assistant that can help with writing, analysis, and questions. If Copilot isn't responding, try these solutions.
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Quick Checks
1. Check Your Subscription
Copilot requires Microsoft 365 Business or Personal:
- Copilot Pro: For individual Microsoft 365 subscribers
- Copilot for Microsoft 365: For business users
Check at: [copilot.microsoft.com](https://copilot.microsoft.com)
2. Check Internet Connection
- Copilot requires internet access
- Try loading a regular website
- Switch from WiFi to wired if possible
3. Check Microsoft 365 Status
Visit [status.office.com](https://status.office.com) to verify Copilot services are operational.
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Troubleshooting Steps
For Copilot in Edge/Chrome (Web)
1. Sign Out and Back In
- Click your profile → Sign out
- Clear browser cache (Ctrl + Shift + Delete)
- Sign back in
2. Clear Browser Cache
- Settings → Privacy → Clear browsing data
- Select "All time" and clear cookies/cache
3. Try Incognito Mode
- Open incognito/private window
- Go to copilot.microsoft.com
- Sign in and try again
For Copilot in Office Apps (Word, Excel, etc.)
1. Update Office
- Open any Office app
- File → Account → Update Options → Update Now
2. Check Copilot Availability
- Look for the Copilot button in the ribbon
- If missing, your license may not include Copilot
3. Restart the Office App
- Close all Office apps
- Reopen and try again
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Common Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|-------|----------|
| Copilot button missing | Check your subscription includes Copilot |
| "Sign in to use Copilot" | Sign into your Microsoft 365 account |
| "Something went wrong" | Refresh page, try incognito, clear cache |
| Slow or stuck response | Check internet, try fewer/more specific prompts |
| "Feature not available" | Contact IT - may need license assigned |
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Getting Better Responses
Write Clear Prompts
- Be specific: "Write a professional email to client about project timeline"
- Set context: "As a project manager, summarize this document"
- Request formats: "Create a bulleted list", "Make a table"
Tips
- Use natural language
- Break complex requests into smaller steps
- Provide relevant context
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Need More Help?
Contact IT support with:
- Where you're trying to use Copilot (web, Word, Teams, etc.)
- Your Microsoft 365 subscription type
- Any error messages displayed
- What you've already tried