Users get the message "Location is turned off in system settings" when working with Word files in Windows

Last Updated: January 27, 2026

ISSUE

When working with Word files in the Word Desktop Application, a message appears in the top corner stating: "Location is turned off in system settings."

This occurs in environments where Windows Location Services are disabled.

Affected Builds

• Version 2511 (Build 19426.20260)

• Monthly Enterprise Channel

STATUS: INVESTIGATING

The Word team is investigating the issue.

WORKAROUND

Enable Windows location services:

1. Right-click Start and select Settings.

2. Select Privacy & security, then select Location.

3. Turn the Location services toggle On.

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See Also

Fixes or workarounds for recent issues in Word for Windows