How To Fix K9356 - Excel could not be started

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: K9 - CO Planning Processor

• Message number: 356

• Message text: Excel could not be started

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message K9356 - Excel could not be started ?

  The SAP error message K9356, which states "Excel could not be started," typically occurs when SAP is trying to export data to Microsoft Excel, but it encounters an issue with launching Excel. Here are some common causes, solutions, and related information for this error:
  Causes:
  
  Excel Not Installed: Microsoft Excel may not be installed on the machine.
  Excel Not Configured Properly: Excel might not be set up correctly or may have issues with its installation.
  File Association Issues: The file associations for Excel files may be broken or misconfigured.
  Permissions Issues: The user may not have the necessary permissions to launch Excel.
  Antivirus/Firewall Interference: Security software may be blocking the launch of Excel.
  SAP GUI Configuration: There may be issues with the SAP GUI settings or configuration.
  Corrupted Excel Installation: The Excel installation may be corrupted or damaged.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Excel Installation:
  
  Ensure that Microsoft Excel is installed on your machine. If not, install it.
  
  
  
  Repair Excel:
  
  If Excel is installed, try repairing the installation. You can do this through the Control Panel:
  
  Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
  Find Microsoft Office in the list, select it, and choose the "Change" option. Then select "Repair."
  
  
  
  
  
  Check File Associations:
  
  Ensure that Excel files (like .xls, .xlsx) are associated with Microsoft Excel. You can check this in the Windows settings under "Default apps."
  
  
  
  Run SAP as Administrator:
  
  Try running the SAP GUI as an administrator. Right-click on the SAP GUI shortcut and select "Run as administrator."
  
  
  
  Check Permissions:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to run Excel. If you are in a corporate environment, check with your IT department.
  
  
  
  Disable Antivirus/Firewall Temporarily:
  
  Temporarily disable any antivirus or firewall software to see if it is causing the issue. If it resolves the problem, you may need to configure the software to allow Excel to run.
  
  
  
  Check SAP GUI Settings:
  
  In the SAP GUI, go to "Options" and check the settings under "Export" to ensure that the correct options for exporting to Excel are selected.
  
  
  
  Reinstall Excel:
  
  If none of the above solutions work, consider uninstalling and then reinstalling Microsoft Excel.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error. SAP frequently releases updates that may address known issues.
  System Requirements: Ensure that your system meets the requirements for both SAP and Microsoft Excel.
  Compatibility: Check for compatibility issues between the version of SAP you are using and the version of Excel installed.
  
  If the problem persists after trying these solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your IT support team or SAP support for further assistance.