Getting 503 service unavailable error while uploading excel file to SharePoint Online.

Updated: Feb 12, 2025

Getting 503 service unavailable error while uploading excel file to SharePoint Online.

The 503 Service Unavailable error is a common issue that can occur when trying to upload an Excel file to SharePoint Online. This error is usually caused by a temporary issue with the SharePoint Online service or with the network connection between your device and SharePoint Online. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve this issue:

  1. Check your internet connection: Ensure that you have a stable and reliable internet connection. Try to access other websites to confirm that your internet connection is working correctly.
  2. Check SharePoint Online status: Check the SharePoint Online service status page to see if there are any known issues affecting the service. You can access the status page at https://status.office.com/.
  3. Clear your browser cache and cookies: Clear your browser cache and cookies to ensure that you are accessing the latest version of the SharePoint Online website.
  4. Try a different browser: If you are experiencing the issue in one browser, try using a different browser to upload the Excel file.
  5. Check file size: Ensure that the Excel file you are trying to upload is within the maximum file size limit for SharePoint Online. The limit is 250 MB for Excel files.
  6. Use SharePoint Online PowerShell: You can use SharePoint Online PowerShell to upload the Excel file directly to SharePoint Online. This bypasses the web interface and can help resolve any issues with the web interface.
  7. Contact SharePoint Online support: If you have tried all the above steps and are still experiencing the issue, contact SharePoint Online support for further assistance. They can help diagnose and resolve any underlying issues with the service.

In summary, the 503 Service Unavailable error while uploading an Excel file to SharePoint Online can be caused by various factors, including network connectivity issues, SharePoint Online service issues, and file size limitations. By following the steps outlined above, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue. If all else fails, contact SharePoint Online support for further assistance.