Confluence crashes when importing Word documents
Platform Notice: Data Center Only - This article only applies to Atlassian products on the Data Center platform.
Note that this KB was created for the Data Center version of the product. Data Center KBs for non-Data-Center-specific features may also work for Server versions of the product, however they have not been tested. Support for Server* products ended on February 15th 2024. If you are running a Server product, you can visit the Atlassian Server end of support announcement to review your migration options.
*Except Fisheye and Crucible
Summary
Problem
Importing a Word document with embedded images can sometimes result in OutOfMemory errors. Confluence Cloud automatically recovers from this errors but a new import attempt will cause another crash even if memory is added to Confluence.
Diagnosis
Environment
Confluence Cloud
Diagnostic Steps
Using the "Import Word Document" option, returns System Unavailable caused by Confluence running out of memory.
Cause
CONFSERVER-21717 - Word documents with embedded images can sometimes result in OOM errors
Solution
Workaround
Use Confluence Pandoc Connect free add-on.
It extends the import functionality and addresses memory handling problems that adds stability to Confluence Cloud imports.
To install, follow the Installation notes in the Marketplace.
Please note that although the add-on is Unsupported by Atlassian we recommend it's usage while the Confluence bug is being addressed.
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