How do I Enable the Solver Add-in in Microsoft Excel

Learn how to enable the Solver Add-in when using Microsoft Excel.

Microsoft Excel, Windows, MacOS

In the event that you may need to use the Microsoft Solver Add in for Excel, there is no need to install or download the additional add-on, as it comes pre-loaded with every JMU licensed installation of Office 365. Prior to using the feature however, it must be enabled within Excel:

To Enable Solver on a Windows Computer:

1. Open the Microsoft Excel application.
2. Click Options in the lower-left of the screen.
   1. If you have a file open, click File in the upper-left, then click Options.
3. On the left column, click Add-ins to open the currently installed Add-Ins.
4. At the bottom of the options window, select Excel Add-ins... in the dropdown menu next to Manage, then click Go...
5. In the new window, click the box next to Solver Add-in.
6. Select OK to save your changes.
   1. If there are any other Add-ins you would like to enable, click the box next to the respective Add-in, then click OK.
7. Close and re-open Microsoft Excel.
8. Open a Workbook and select Data on the top ribbon.
9. The Solver function should be selectable on the right side of the toolbar.

To Enable Solver on a macOS Computer:

1. Open the Microsoft Excel application.
2. Open a Workbook.
3. Select Data on the top ribbon.
4. In the upper-right of Excel, click Analysis Tools.
5. In the Analysis Tools window, click the box next to Solver Add-in, then click OK.
6. The Solver function should be selectable under the Analysis Tools button.

For additional questions, you can contact the JMU IT Help Desk at helpdesk@jmu.edu or 540-568-3555.