Go through the list in the drop-down for “ COM Add-ins“, “ Actions“, and “ XML Expansion Packs” and see if disabling items in those selections do the trick. If not, repeat steps 3 through 7, only try a different selection in step 6. Close Excel, then launch it normally to see if that did the trick.This will disable Add-ins that may be causing the freezing. If any items are checked, try unchecking them, then selecting “ OK“.Select “ Excel Add-ins” in the “ Manage” drop-down menu, then select “ Go…“.If you still experience problems with Excel started in Safe Mode, try the next set of instructions. Proceed with step 4 to try to fix the issue. If Excel opens with the above steps, it is likely that a plugin or other software is installed that is interfering with the software. Hold the Windows Key and press “ R” to bring up the Run dialog box.If it only happens in one file, you will have to pinpoint what exactly is causing the problem in that file.

If Excel freezes in any file you open, it is likely related to the program itself. First, check to see if Excel is freezing in more than one spreadsheet.

Disable links in excel 2003 spreadsheet