If you are reading this post, you have likely just encountered one of the most frustrating errors in WPS Office. You downloaded a spreadsheet with powerful automation, you try to run a macro, and instead of magic, you get a generic error message:
"Macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed."
Don't panic. This does not mean your file is broken, nor does it mean you need to switch operating systems. It simply means your version of WPS Office is currently "light" on programming features.
In this post, we will walk you through exactly why this happens and the two easiest ways to fix it.
Try reinstalling WPS Office completely, then install the VBA plugin immediately after before opening any file. Also, ensure your Windows system has the latest Visual C++ Redistributables installed.
For Linux users encountering this error, the solution is more complex:
| Solution | Works in WPS Free | Works in WPS Pro | Requires purchase | |----------|------------------|------------------|--------------------| | Install VBA add‑in | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ (Pro license) | | Upgrade to WPS Pro | ✅ (by upgrading) | ✅ | ✅ | | Switch to MS Office | N/A | N/A | ✅ (unless already owned) | | View only (no macros) | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
If you need further assistance, contact WPS support or check your license type under Menu → Help → About WPS Office.
The error message "macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed" typically occurs because WPS Office Personal/Free editions do not include Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) by default. While WPS Office is highly compatible with Microsoft Office formats, VBA is a proprietary Microsoft technology that WPS must license separately, which is why it is generally reserved for paid or enterprise versions. 1. Root Cause: Edition Limitations
The most common reason for this error is that you are using a version of WPS Office that lacks the VBA module. WPS Free/Personal: Does not natively support VBA macros.
WPS Professional/Enterprise: These editions often include the necessary VBA support library.
Missing Plugin: Even in some versions that could support it, the "VBA for WPS" plugin might not have been included in the initial installation. 2. Primary Fix: Install the VBA Support Library
To run macros, you must manually add the VBA environment to your WPS installation.
Official WPS VBA 7.1: You can download the WPS VBA 7.1 add-in directly from the WPS Academy or official WPS Support pages.
Installation Process: Ensure WPS Office is completely closed before running the installer. Once installed, the "Developer" tab should become active, providing access to the Visual Basic Editor and Macro settings.
Verification: Press Alt + F11 inside WPS Writer or Spreadsheets. If the VBA Editor opens, the library is correctly installed. 3. How to Enable Macros After Installation
Once the library is present, you must enable the functionality within the software: Open WPS Spreadsheets or Writer. Go to the Menu (top-left) and select Options.
Choose Customize Ribbon and ensure the Developer tab is checked.
Navigate to the Developer tab on the main ribbon and click Macro Security to allow macros to run (choose "Disable all macros with notification" for a balance of security and function). 4. Compatibility Warnings
Even with the library installed, compatibility is not 100% identical to Microsoft Excel.
Standard VBA: Most basic automation and standard commands will work.
Complex APIs: Macros that make deep calls to unique Microsoft Office APIs or specific ActiveX controls may still fail or require code "tweaks".
Alternatives: For users who cannot get VBA working, LibreOffice is an open-source alternative that supports VBA macros natively without additional paid plugins.
How to Fix "WPS Office Macros Cannot Be Run Because the VBA Support Library Is Not Installed"
If you encounter the error message "WPS Office macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed," it means your current version of WPS Office lacks the necessary Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) environment required to execute automation scripts.
While WPS Office is a popular alternative to Microsoft Office, its Free version typically does not include the VBA support library by default. You must either upgrade to a version that supports it or manually install the missing module. Why is the VBA Support Library Missing? If you are reading this post, you have
Version Limitation: The free standard version of WPS Office often excludes the VBA module to keep the installer lightweight or to encourage professional upgrades.
Disabled by Default: In some installations, the VBA support environment might be present but disabled due to security settings or configuration choices.
Incomplete Installation: If you chose a custom installation, the VBA components may have been deselected. Step-by-Step Solutions to Restore Macro Functionality 1. Download and Install the WPS VBA 7.1 Add-in
To run macros, you need to install the specific VBA module compatible with WPS.
Find the Module: Search for the WPS VBA 7.1 support package on the official WPS website or trusted developer forums.
Install: Close all WPS applications (Writer, Spreadsheets, Presentation) before running the installer.
Verify: After installation, restart WPS Office. A Developer tab should now appear in the ribbon menu. 2. Enable the Developer Tab and Macro Settings
If the library is installed but macros still won't run, you may need to manually enable the interface and security permissions.
The error message "macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed" in WPS Office typically occurs because the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) environment is not included in the standard free version of the software. Unlike Microsoft Office, where VBA is often pre-installed, WPS Office treats it as an optional add-in or a feature reserved for specific versions. Why This Happens
Version Limitation: The standard free version of WPS Office usually lacks the required VBA components to execute macros.
Missing Plugin: Even if your version supports it, the VBAxWPS.exe (the support library) may not have been selected during initial installation or may have failed to install.
Security Settings: In some cases, the library exists, but the "Developer" tab or macro execution is disabled by default. How to Fix the Error
To resolve this, you need to manually install the support library or upgrade your version.
This error occurs because the standard free version of WPS Office does not include the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA)
environment by default. To run macros, you must either upgrade to a version that includes it or manually install the missing plugin. WPS Office Primary Solutions Upgrade to WPS Office Pro/Business
: The most reliable way to get VBA support is by using a version that natively includes the package, such as the WPS Office Business Install the VBA Support Library Plugin : You can manually add VBA functionality by downloading the WPS VBA 7.1 (or version 6.0+) package from the WPS Academy or other trusted sources. Close all WPS Office applications before installing. Run the installer (often named vba6chs.msi or similar) and follow the prompts. Restart WPS Office; the tab should now be visible and functional. WPS Office Alternative Troubleshooting Steps
If the library is installed but macros still won't run, check your security settings:
How to Download VBA Support Library for Office (A Detailed Guide) 19-Dec-2024 —
This error typically occurs when the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) environment is missing or disabled in your installation
. While WPS Office is highly compatible with Microsoft Office, the VBA support library is often a separate component that must be manually enabled or installed—especially in the free version. How to Fix the "VBA Support Library Not Installed" Error 1. Enable the Developer Tab and Macro Settings
Sometimes the library is there, but the interface isn't set up to use it. Open WPS Spreadsheets (or Writer). Customize Ribbon and ensure the tab is checked. tab now visible on your top ribbon, click Macro Settings , and select Enable all macros 2. Install the WPS VBA Add-in
If the "Macros" button is grayed out or you receive the error immediately, you likely need the specific VBA 7.1 support package. Download the Library : Visit the official WPS Academy to find the WPS VBA 7.1 Run the Installer
: Close all WPS applications and run the downloaded executable. It will automatically link the VBA environment to your WPS suite. : Open your file again; the error should be resolved. 3. Verify File Compatibility
Macros only run in specific file formats. If you are using a standard file, macros will not work. Ensure the file type is set to Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (.xlsm) 4. Professional vs. Free Version
In some regions or older versions, VBA support was historically a Premium/Professional "Macros cannot be run because the VBA support
feature. If you are using a strictly limited free version, you may need to upgrade to a version that explicitly includes VBA support, though many current "Free" versions allow the manual installation of the VBA 7.1 add-in. Summary of Key Steps Check Ribbon Ensure the "Developer" tab is visible. Download VBA 7.1 Provides the missing library files needed to run code. Macros require this specific file format to execute. Security Settings
"Enable All Macros" prevents the library from being blocked.
How to Fix: WPS Office Macros Cannot Be Run Because the VBA Support Library is Not Installed
If you have encountered the error message "WPS Office macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed," you are likely trying to run an automated script or a macro-enabled file (like .xlsm) in WPS Spreadsheets or Writer.
Unlike Microsoft Office, which typically includes the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) environment by default, WPS Office often requires a separate installation or a specific version to enable this functionality. Why This Error Occurs
The primary reason for this error is that the VBA environment is missing from your current installation.
Free vs. Premium: Historically, WPS Office included VBA support primarily in its Professional or Enterprise editions.
Missing Plugin: Even if your version supports it, the specific VBA plugin might not have been selected during the initial installation wizard.
Architecture Mismatch: Using the UWP version (from the Microsoft Store) often lacks macro support compared to the standard EXE installer. Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix VBA in WPS Office 1. Download and Install the VBA Support Library
To fix the "library not installed" error, you must manually add the VBA components.
Locate the Installer: Look for a file named VBAxWPS.exe or Visual Basic for Applications v7.1. Installation Process: Close all open WPS Office applications.
Run the VBAxWPS.exe installer with administrative privileges. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup. Restart WPS Office and check the Developer tab. 2. Enable the Developer Tab and Macros
Once the library is installed, you must ensure the interface and security settings allow macros to run.
Title: Technical Analysis and Resolution of VBA Support Library Errors in WPS Office Subject: Troubleshooting Macro Execution Failures Audience: IT Administrators, Power Users, and General Users
If you do not actually need the macros to run — you just need to view the data — you can convert the file to a standard format.
Steps:
When to use this: You only need the static data/text, and you do not need automation or custom functions.
In rare cases, you can point WPS to an existing Microsoft Office VBA installation. However, this often fails due to registry and DLL mismatches.
If you already have Microsoft Office with VBA installed:
Warning: Microsoft does not license VBA for use in third-party software. WPS may ignore this or crash.
WPS Office Free version does not include built‑in VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) support. When you try to run or open a file containing macros (.xlsm, .docm, .pptm, or files with VBA code), you’ll see:
“Macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed.”
This is normal for the free edition.
The error “WPS Office macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed” is not a bug—it’s a missing feature. In most cases, installing the dedicated WPS VBA plugin solves the problem instantly. If you cannot use the plugin, upgrading to a paid version of WPS is your next best bet.
For professional users who rely heavily on VBA automation (financial models, data processing, legacy business macros), switching to Microsoft Office may ultimately be the most headache-free solution. However, for light to moderate macro usage, the steps above will get WPS running your VBA code without further issues. Don't panic
Have questions or other WPS macro errors? Leave a comment below or visit the official WPS Community Forums for advanced troubleshooting.
The error "macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed" in WPS Office occurs because the standard free version does not include the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) engine by default . To resolve this, you must
manually install the VBA support module or upgrade to a version that supports it Solution 1: Install the WPS VBA 7.1 Add-in
Since WPS Office does not provide a built-in VBA package in most free versions, you need to download and install it separately. Download the Module
: Search for the "WPS VBA 7.1" or "vba7.msi" installer from the WPS Academy or trusted developer communities.
: Close all WPS Office applications before running the installer. Once finished, restart WPS. : Open WPS Spreadsheets, navigate to the tab, and check if the Visual Basic buttons are now clickable. Solution 2: Enable the Developer Tab
If the library is installed but you cannot see the macro options, you may need to enable the ribbon tab: Customize Ribbon and check the box. to move Macros into your main ribbon view and click Solution 3: Version Compatibility Personal vs. Enterprise
: Some older reports suggest macros are primarily supported in the Enterprise Edition or specialized versions purchased through distributors. Microsoft Office Presence
: On some systems, the Developer tab only becomes active if a version of Microsoft Office with a VBA environment is also present on the machine. Ask Ubuntu Alternative for Linux Users
For those using WPS Office on Linux (e.g., Ubuntu), standard VBA support is often missing. Users typically need to seek third-party community packages or use the Enterprise version to enable full macro functionality. Ask Ubuntu download link to the official VBA 7.1 support package or help troubleshooting a specific macro error code?
To resolve the error "macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed" in WPS Office, you must install the VBA Support Library (vba6.exe or vba7.1) manually or upgrade to a version that includes it.
The standard free version of WPS Office often excludes the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) environment to save space and licensing costs. 🛠️ Quick Solutions 1. Upgrade to WPS Professional
The most reliable way to get full macro support is to use a WPS Professional or Business license.
Macro and VBA packages are natively integrated into the Professional version. Visit the WPS Business Store to view license options. 2. Manual VBA Library Installation
If you prefer to stay on a free or standard version, you must find and install the missing VBAxWPS.exe or VBA7.1 package.
Download: Look for "WPS VBA 7.1" or "VBA for WPS" on the Official WPS Academy or trusted developer communities.
Install: Run the .exe file (typically named vba6.exe or VBAxWPS.exe).
Restart: Close and reopen WPS Office for the changes to take effect. 3. Enable the Developer Tab Even after installation, the macro tools might be hidden. Open WPS Writer or Spreadsheets and go to File > Options. Select Customize Ribbon. Check the Developer box in the "Main Tabs" list. Click OK to reveal the Macro and Visual Basic buttons. 🔒 Security & Formatting
Macro Settings: Check File > Options > Trust Center > Macro Settings and ensure macros are not completely disabled.
File Type: Ensure your file is saved in a macro-enabled format, such as .xlsm for spreadsheets.
Source Check: Only download VBA libraries from the official WPS site or well-known forums to avoid malware.
💡 Tip: If macros still won't run, check if a local installation of Microsoft Office is interfering with WPS's path to the VBA libraries. How to Add & Enable Macros on WPS Office !! Latest 2025
The error message "WPS Office macros cannot be run because the VBA support library is not installed" occurs because WPS Office, unlike Microsoft Office, does not always include the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) environment by default. This functionality is typically reserved for the WPS Office Professional/Business editions or requires a separate manual installation of the VBA support package. Common Causes
Version Limitation: The free or personal versions of WPS Office often do not include the VBA engine required to execute .xlsm or macro-enabled files.
Missing Plugin: Even in some paid versions, the VBA support library might not be selected during the initial installation.
Incompatible File Format: Attempting to run macros in a standard .xlsx file will fail, as macros require the .xlsm format. Recommended Solutions
