Hi there, in this article we will be discussing some of the most effective methods on how to unlock a password protected Excel file with ease. Excel is one of the most widely utilized software applications nowadays and it has become an indispensable tool in most businesses and organizations. However, there are times when you may forget or lose the password to your Excel document, which can be rather frustrating. But fret not, as we will be sharing some helpful tips on how to overcome this issue.
Method 1: Using an Online Password Recovery Service
One of the easiest ways to unlock a password protected Excel file is to utilize an online password recovery service. There are a number of online services available that provide password unlocking services, with many being free to use.
To use this method, simply search for and select a reputable password recovery service provider and then UPLOAD your password protected Excel file to their website or server. The service provider will then analyze and try to crack the password, which can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours to complete. Once the password has been cracked, you will be able to download your unlocked file and access your data without any issues.
Method 2: Using a VBA Macro Code
Another method that is often used by Excel professionals is by using a Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) macro code. This method is particularly useful for files with weak passwords or those that have a tendency to be easily guessable.
To use this method, you will need to first create a new Excel file and then go to the Visual Basic Editor (VBE) by pressing Alt + F11. Once you are inside the VBE, you will need to insert a new module and then paste the code below:
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
This VBA macro code will try out various password combinations until it is able to successfully unlock your password protected Excel file. Once the file is unlocked, you can then save the file under a different name to avoid overwriting the original password protected file.
FAQs
Q. Can using password recovery services cause data loss?
A. No, using password recovery services will not cause any data loss as long as you have uploaded the correct file and registered with a reliable service provider. However, it is always recommended to make a backup of your Excel files before any password recovery attempts are made, just in case.
Q. Is using VBA macro code safe?
A. Yes, using VBA macro code is completely safe as long as it is utilized in the correct manner. It is important to only use code from reputable sources, and to carefully follow the instructions provided. Additionally, it is recommended that you make a backup of your Excel files before using VBA macro code, just in case.
Conclusion
In conclusion, forgetting the password to a password protected Excel file can be a frustrating and stressful experience. However, by using the methods mentioned above, you can easily unlock your Excel files with ease. Whether you choose to use an online password recovery service or VBA macro code, it is important to always make a backup of your Excel files to avoid data loss.
For more information and helpful tips, check out the video tutorial below: