Have you ever encountered a situation where you forget your Excel password and you can’t retrieve important data? Fear not, we’ve got you covered with a step-by-step tutorial on how to unlock Excel password-protected files.
Method 1: Using Excel Password Remover
If you’re looking for a straightforward and efficient way to unlock a password-protected Excel file, the Excel Password Remover tool is your solution. This tool makes it easy to remove Excel passwords, even for files with long and complex passwords.
Here’s how to use the Excel Password Remover:
- Download and install Excel Password Remover on your computer.
- Launch the program and open the Excel file you need to unlock.
- Click on the “Remove Password” button, and the program will start to decrypt the file. This process may take some time, depending on the length and complexity of the password.
- Once the password is removed, save the unlocked file with a new name, and you’re done!
It’s crucial to note that Excel Password Remover is a paid tool, but if you deal with password-protected Excel files regularly, it’s worth investing in.
Method 2: Using Macros
If you don’t want to spend money on third-party tools, there’s another way to unlock an Excel password-protected file. It involves using Macros, which are small programs that automate tasks in Excel.
Here’s how you can use Macros to remove Excel passwords:
- Open the password-protected Excel file.
- Press Alt + F11 to open the Visual Basic Editor.
- Click on “Insert” and select “Module.”
- Paste the following code into the new module:
- Press F5 to run the code. This Macro runs through all possible password combinations, so it may take some time to complete depending on the complexity of the password.
- If the correct password is found, a message box will display the password. Enter the password to unlock the file.
Sub PasswordBreaker()
'Breaks worksheet password protection.
Dim i As Integer, j As Integer, k As Integer
Dim l As Integer, m As Integer, n As Integer
Dim i1 As Integer, i2 As Integer, i3 As Integer
Dim i4 As Integer, i5 As Integer, i6 As Integer
On Error Resume Next
For i = 65 To 66: For j = 65 To 66: For k = 65 To 66
For l = 65 To 66: For m = 65 To 66: For i1 = 65 To 66
For i2 = 65 To 66: For i3 = 65 To 66: For i4 = 65 To 66
For i5 = 65 To 66: For i6 = 65 To 66: For n = 32 To 126
ActiveSheet.Unprotect Chr(i) & Chr(j) & Chr(k) & _
Chr(l) & Chr(m) & Chr(i1) & Chr(i2) & Chr(i3) & _
Chr(i4) & Chr(i5) & Chr(i6) & Chr(n)
If ActiveSheet.ProtectContents = False Then
MsgBox "One usable password is " & Chr(i) & Chr(j) & _
Chr(k) & Chr(l) & Chr(m) & Chr(i1) & Chr(i2) & _
Chr(i3) & Chr(i4) & Chr(i5) & Chr(i6) & Chr(n)
Exit Sub
End If
Next: Next: Next: Next: Next: Next
Next: Next: Next: Next: Next: Next
End Sub
Keep in mind that this method may not work on files with exceptionally long or complicated passwords. If the Macro doesn’t work, try the Excel Password Remover tool or consider seeking professional help.
FAQs
1. Can I recover a forgotten Excel password?
Yes, you can recover a forgotten Excel password using one of the methods discussed in this article. The Excel Password Remover tool is a paid third-party program that can unlock password-protected files quickly and efficiently. Alternatively, you can use Macros to try and brute-force the password.
2. How do I prevent Excel password protection from being bypassed?
It’s essential to use a strong password that is difficult to guess. Avoid using common words or easily identifiable information like names or dates. Additionally, use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols for added security.
You may also consider using a password manager to generate and store strong passwords securely.
Conclusion
Unlocking a password-protected Excel file can be a complicated process, but it’s not impossible. With the right tools and patience, you can easily remove the password and access the data you need. If one method doesn’t work, try another, and don’t forget to use strong passwords to prevent the need for password recovery in the first place.