how to remove password from excel file

How to Remove Password From Excel File: A Step-by-Step Guide

Forgot your Excel file password? Don’t panic! Removing a password from an Excel file isn’t rocket science. We’ll guide you through the process with easy-to-follow steps. 😊

Before You Start

• Make sure you have permission to remove the password. If not, you may need to contact the file owner.
• Back up the Excel file before you start. Just in case something goes wrong, you’ll have a backup to fall back on.

Method 1: Using Excel’s Built-In Feature

Step 1: Open the Encrypted File

Open the Excel file that you want to remove the password from. You may need to enter the password to open it.

Step 2: Click on the "Review" Tab

In the ribbon at the top of the Excel window, click on the "Review" tab.

Step 3: Select "Protect Workbook"

In the "Protect" group, click on the "Protect Workbook" option.

Step 4: Remove the Password

In the "Protect Workbook" window, uncheck the "Encrypt with Password" checkbox.

Step 5: Click "OK"

Click on the "OK" button to save your changes and remove the password.

Method 2: Using a Third-Party Tool

If the built-in method doesn’t work, you can try using a third-party tool. There are several free and paid tools available that can help you remove the password from your Excel file.

One Popular Option Is PassFab for Excel:

Step 1: Download and Install PassFab for Excel

Download and install PassFab for Excel on your computer.

Step 2: Open the Encrypted File

Open PassFab for Excel and click on the "Open" button. Select the encrypted Excel file that you want to remove the password from.

Step 3: Select an Attack Type

Select the attack type that you want to use. There are three options available: Dictionary Attack, Brute Force with Mask Attack, and Brute Force Attack.

Step 4: Start the Attack

Click on the "Start" button to begin the attack.

Step 5: Remove the Password

Once the attack is complete, the password will be displayed. Click on the "Copy Password" button to copy the password to your clipboard.

Method 3: Using a VBA Macro

If you’re comfortable with VBA macros, you can use a VBA macro to remove the password from your Excel file.

Step 1: Open the VBA Editor

Press Alt + F11 to open the VBA editor.

Step 2: Insert a New Module

Right-click on the "Project" window and select "Insert" > "Module".

Step 3: Paste the VBA Code

Paste the following VBA code into the module:

Sub RemovePassword()
    Dim Password As String
    Password = InputBox("Please enter the password for the protected workbook.")
    If Password <> "" Then
        ActiveWorkbook.Unprotect Password
    Else
        MsgBox "The password you entered is incorrect."
    End If
End Sub

Step 4: Run the Macro

Click on the "Run" button in the VBA editor to run the macro.

Step 5: Remove the Password

If the password is correct, the password will be removed from the Excel file.

Comparison Table: How to Remove Password From Excel File

Conclusion

Now that you know how to remove a password from an Excel file, you can protect your sensitive data without worrying about forgetting the password. Remember to always back up your files before making any changes.

If you’re still having trouble removing the password from your Excel file, feel free to check out our other articles for more help. We cover a variety of topics, including how to recover deleted files, how to speed up your computer, and how to fix common Excel errors.

FAQ about How to Remove Password from Excel File

1. How do I remove a password from an Excel file?

A:

1. Open the protected Excel file.
2. Click "File" > "Info".
3. Select "Protect Workbook".
4. Enter the correct password.
5. Uncheck the "Protect Workbook" box.
6. Click "OK".

2. What if I don’t know the password?

A:
There are several methods to remove a password if you don’t know it:

• Use a password recovery tool.
• Try to guess the password.
• Contact the person who protected the file.

3. How do I remove a password using a password recovery tool?

A:

1. Download and install a password recovery tool.
2. Open the password-protected Excel file in the tool.
3. Select the desired recovery method.
4. Wait for the tool to recover the password.

4. How long does it take to remove a password?

A:
The time it takes to remove a password depends on the password complexity and the method used. It could take a few minutes to several hours.

5. Is it safe to use a password recovery tool?

A:
Generally, reputable password recovery tools are safe to use. However, it’s recommended to back up the protected file before attempting any password removal.

6. What are some tips for guessing the password?

A:

• Try common passwords such as "password", "123456", or "qwerty".
• Look for patterns in the filename or file content.
• Consider the context of the file creation or sharing.

7. Can I prevent my Excel files from being password-protected?

A:
Yes, you can set a policy to disable password protection in Excel.

• Navigate to Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
• Go to "Settings" > "Policies".
• Create a new policy and disable the "Allow users to protect files with passwords" option.

8. What happens if I forget the password I set?

A:
If you forgot the password you set to protect an Excel file, it may be impossible to recover it without using a password recovery tool or contacting the person who set the password.

9. How can I protect my Excel file without using a password?

A:
There are other methods of protecting Excel files, such as:

• File encryption
• Access control using file permissions
• Document restrictions (e.g., preventing editing or printing)

10. Is it necessary to remove a password from an Excel file?

A:
It’s only necessary to remove a password if you need to access or edit the file without the password. If the password is not needed for protection, it’s recommended to remove it for convenience.