PowerPoint presentations that include embedded or inserted videos frequently trigger application crashes or freezing, especially on newer systems or after recent updates. This issue can interrupt workflow, cause data loss, and make it difficult to deliver important presentations. Addressing both software and hardware factors, as well as file compatibility, is essential for restoring stability when working with media in PowerPoint.

Update PowerPoint, Windows, and Graphics Drivers

Outdated software and drivers can cause compatibility issues with video playback in PowerPoint. Keeping everything current can resolve many crash scenarios.

Step 1: In PowerPoint, go to the File menu, select Account, then click Update Options > Update Now to install the latest updates.

Step 2: For Windows, open Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates. Restart your PC after updates are installed.

Step 3: Update your graphics drivers, especially if you use Intel Iris Xe or UHD graphics. Visit your device manufacturer's support page or use Windows Device Manager to check for and install the latest drivers. Some users have found that rolling back or updating to specific driver versions (such as 31.0.101.4032 for Intel Iris Xe) resolves persistent crashing with video playback.

Optimize Video and Media Files Before Inserting

PowerPoint supports specific video formats and codecs. Incompatible or high-bitrate files can cause the program to freeze or close unexpectedly.

Step 1: Convert all videos to MP4 format using H.264 video and AAC audio codecs before inserting them into your presentation. Avoid using .mov, .avi, or MPEG-2 formats, as these are less consistently supported.

Step 2: Reduce the video’s resolution and file size using a video editor or converter. Large video files (especially those over 50 MB) are more likely to cause performance problems.

Step 3: Insert videos using Insert > Video > This Device rather than copying and pasting. This ensures PowerPoint processes the file correctly.

Step 4: After inserting, use PowerPoint’s File > Info menu to check for an Optimize Compatibility button. If available, select it to address potential playback issues.

Disable Hardware Graphics Acceleration

Hardware acceleration can sometimes conflict with certain graphics drivers or Office builds, especially on systems with Intel Iris Xe or UHD graphics, resulting in PowerPoint crashes when playing or scrubbing through videos.

Step 1: In PowerPoint, select File > Options > Advanced.

Step 2: Scroll to the Display section and check the box for Disable hardware graphics acceleration and/or Disable Slide Show hardware graphics acceleration.

Step 3: Click OK and restart PowerPoint. Test video playback to see if the issue is resolved.

Note: Some Office builds or license types may not display both options. If you do not see these settings, ensure your Office installation is up to date or try an alternative Office build if possible.

Repair Microsoft Office Installation

Corrupted Office installations can cause persistent application crashes across PowerPoint and other Office apps. Repairing the installation restores default settings and replaces damaged components.

Step 1: Close all Office applications. Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps (or Control Panel > Programs and Features).

Step 2: Locate Microsoft Office in the list, select it, and click Modify.

Step 3: Choose Quick Repair first. If the problem persists, repeat and select Online Repair for a more thorough fix. Restart your computer and retest PowerPoint.

Check and Remove Problematic Add-ins

Third-party add-ins can interfere with PowerPoint’s ability to process and play embedded videos, causing crashes or freezing.

Step 1: In PowerPoint, navigate to File > Options > Add-ins.

Step 2: At the bottom of the window, set the Manage dropdown to COM Add-ins and click Go.

Step 3: Uncheck all add-ins and restart PowerPoint. If the issue resolves, re-enable add-ins one at a time to identify any that cause instability.

Reduce Presentation File Size and Complexity

Large presentations with many slides, high-resolution images, or lengthy videos can exceed system resource limits, causing PowerPoint to freeze or crash during media insertion or playback.

Step 1: Check your PowerPoint file size in Windows Explorer. Right-click the file and select Properties to view its size. Aim to keep presentations under 10 MB when possible; files over 50 MB are more likely to cause problems.

Step 2: Compress images before inserting, or use PowerPoint’s Compress Pictures feature under the Picture Format tab.

Step 3: Limit the number of simultaneous animations and transitions on each slide. Simplifying animations reduces memory usage and playback errors.

Optimize System Resources and Hardware

Running multiple applications or using outdated hardware can deplete available memory and processing power, making PowerPoint more likely to crash during video playback or insertion.

Step 1: Press Ctrl + Alt + Del and open Task Manager. End unnecessary processes consuming significant CPU or memory.

Step 2: Confirm your PC meets or exceeds the minimum system requirements for your version of PowerPoint. For Office 365 and Windows 11, at least 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended) and a modern CPU are advised.

Step 3: If using an older device, consider upgrading hardware or simplifying your presentation by reducing media and animations.

Repair Corrupted PowerPoint Files

Corrupted PowerPoint files are a common cause of repeated crashes, particularly after inserting or playing videos. Specialized repair tools can scan and fix damaged presentations, restoring access and improving application stability.

Step 1: Download and install a reliable PowerPoint repair tool, such as Repairit PowerPoint File Repair or EaseUS Fixo Document Repair. Launch the tool and select the option to repair a file.

Step 2: Use the tool’s interface to add the problematic PowerPoint file. The tool will analyze the file for damage and guide you through the repair process.

Step 3: After the repair is complete, preview the file to confirm that videos and other media play correctly. Save the repaired file to a secure location on your device.

Additional Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips

  • Save your work frequently and enable AutoSave to minimize data loss in case of a crash.
  • Check that antivirus software is updated and not interfering with PowerPoint. If needed, add PowerPoint to the antivirus exception list.
  • If PowerPoint continues to crash, try working in Safe Mode by holding Ctrl while launching the application. This disables add-ins and can help isolate the problem.
  • For persistent or unresolvable issues, consider reinstalling Microsoft Office or switching to a different Office build, as some users have found specific versions more stable with media playback.
  • On Mac, ensure both Office and macOS are updated to the latest versions, especially if you are experiencing crashes when mirroring or extending your display.

Resolving PowerPoint crashes when inserting or playing videos often requires a combination of file optimization, software updates, and hardware adjustments. Applying these strategies will help you create and present media-rich slideshows without interruptions.