How to Remove Read Only Recommendation in Excel and Decrypt Excel Files Without Password
Excel files with read-only recommendations or password protection can be frustrating obstacles in your workflow. This comprehensive guide will show you proven methods to remove read only recommendation in Excel and decrypt Excel files without passwords, enabling you to regain full access to your important documents.
Table of Contents
Understanding Read-Only Recommendations in Excel
Excel's read-only recommendation is a security feature that suggests opening a file in read-only mode. This feature is different from password protection but serves a similar purpose: preventing accidental modifications to important documents.
What is Read-Only Mode?
When you open an Excel file with a read-only recommendation, you'll see a dialog box asking whether you want to open the file as read-only or enable editing. This recommendation can be set by the file author to protect the document from unauthorized changes.
Key Differences: Read-Only vs Password Protection
- Read-Only Recommendation: A suggestion that can be bypassed by clicking "No" - provides soft protection
- Password Protection: Requires the correct password to access or modify content - provides hard protection
- Write Reservation: Allows read access but requires a password to modify the file
Why Remove Read-Only Recommendations?
While read-only recommendations serve a protective purpose, there are legitimate reasons to remove them:
- You are the original file creator but forgot you set the recommendation
- You received a file from a colleague who no longer works at your organization
- The dialog box interrupts your workflow when opening files repeatedly
- You need to make urgent edits to legacy files with no available password
- You're consolidating files and need consistent access levels
How to Remove Read Only Recommendation in Excel
There are several effective methods to remove read only recommendation in Excel. We'll explore each technique from the simplest to more advanced approaches.
Method 1: Using File Properties
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- 1.Open Excel and click File > Open to locate your file (do not double-click to open)
- 2.Click on File > Info in the ribbon
- 3.Click Protect Workbook and select Always Open Read-Only to toggle it off
- 4.Save the file with Ctrl + S or File > Save
Method 2: Using General Options
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- 1.Open the Excel file normally (click "No" on the read-only prompt)
- 2.Click File > Save As and choose a location
- 3.In the Save As dialog, click Tools (bottom right) and select General Options
- 4.Uncheck "Read-only recommended" checkbox
- 5.Click OK and then Save
Method 3: File Explorer Properties
Sometimes the read-only attribute is set at the file system level, not within Excel. Here's how to check:
- 1.Close the Excel file completely
- 2.Right-click the file in File Explorer and select Properties
- 3.In the General tab, uncheck Read-only attribute
- 4.Click Apply then OK
Pro Tip
If you work with multiple files that have read-only recommendations, consider creating a simple VBA macro to batch remove this setting. See the VBA section below for code examples.
Decrypt Excel File Without Password: Proven Techniques
When dealing with password-protected Excel files where you've forgotten or lost the password, you need more advanced techniques. Here are proven methods to decrypt Excel files without the original password.
Understanding Excel Password Types
Excel uses different types of password protection:
| Protection Type | What It Protects | Difficulty to Remove |
|---|---|---|
| Workbook Protection | Prevents structural changes (adding/deleting sheets) | Easy (VBA method) |
| Worksheet Protection | Prevents editing cells in specific sheets | Easy (VBA method) |
| File Encryption | Prevents opening the file entirely | Moderate (requires tools) |
| Write Reservation | Allows viewing but requires password to edit | Easy (save as copy) |
Technique 1: ZIP File Method (for .xlsx files)
Modern Excel files (.xlsx) are actually ZIP archives. You can modify the internal XML to remove worksheet protection:
Step-by-Step Process:
- 1.Make a backup copy of your Excel file
- 2.Change the file extension from
.xlsxto.zip - 3.Extract the ZIP file contents to a folder
- 4.Navigate to
xl/worksheets/folder - 5.Open each
sheet*.xmlfile in a text editor (Notepad++) - 6.Find and delete the entire
<sheetProtection>tag - 7.Save the XML file and close the editor
- 8.Re-compress all extracted files back into a ZIP archive
- 9.Rename the ZIP file back to
.xlsx - 10.Open the file in Excel - protection is removed
Important Warning
This method only works for worksheet/workbook protection, NOT for file encryption passwords. If the file requires a password to open, you'll need specialized tools or online services like excel-decoder.online.
Technique 2: Google Sheets Conversion Method
For some types of Excel protection, Google Sheets can help bypass restrictions:
- 1.Upload the protected Excel file to Google Drive
- 2.Right-click and select Open with > Google Sheets
- 3.Google Sheets may ignore worksheet protection settings
- 4.Download as Excel format: File > Download > Microsoft Excel
- 5.The downloaded file should have protection removed
Note: This method works best for worksheet protection but may lose some formatting or advanced Excel features during conversion.
Using VBA Code to Remove Excel Restrictions
Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) provides powerful automation capabilities for removing worksheet and workbook protection. This method is highly effective and works for most Excel versions.
VBA Code for Worksheet Protection Removal
Sub RemoveWorksheetProtection()
Dim ws As Worksheet
Dim i As Integer, j As Integer, k As Integer
Dim l As Integer, m As Integer, n As Integer
Dim password As String
On Error Resume Next
For Each ws In ActiveWorkbook.Worksheets
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 n = 65 To 66
password = Chr(i) & Chr(j) & Chr(k) & _
Chr(l) & Chr(m) & Chr(n)
ws.Unprotect password
If ws.ProtectContents = False Then
MsgBox "Password found: " & password & _
" for sheet: " & ws.Name
Exit For
End If
Next n
If ws.ProtectContents = False Then Exit For
Next m
If ws.ProtectContents = False Then Exit For
Next l
If ws.ProtectContents = False Then Exit For
Next k
If ws.ProtectContents = False Then Exit For
Next j
If ws.ProtectContents = False Then Exit For
Next i
Next ws
MsgBox "All worksheet protections removed!"
End SubHow to Use the VBA Code
- 1.Open the protected Excel file
- 2.Press Alt + F11 to open the VBA Editor
- 3.Click Insert > Module to create a new module
- 4.Copy and paste the VBA code above into the module
- 5.Press F5 or click Run to execute the code
- 6.Wait for the code to complete (may take 1-2 minutes)
- 7.Close the VBA Editor and verify worksheet protection is removed
Advanced VBA: Workbook Protection Removal
Sub RemoveWorkbookProtection()
Dim i As Integer, j As Integer, k As Integer
Dim l As Integer, m As Integer, n As Integer
Dim password As String
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 n = 65 To 66
password = Chr(i) & Chr(j) & Chr(k) & _
Chr(l) & Chr(m) & Chr(n)
ActiveWorkbook.Unprotect password
If ActiveWorkbook.ProtectStructure = False Then
MsgBox "Workbook password found: " & password
Exit Sub
End If
Next n
Next m
Next l
Next k
Next j
Next i
If ActiveWorkbook.ProtectStructure = False Then
MsgBox "Workbook protection removed successfully!"
Else
MsgBox "Could not remove workbook protection."
End If
End SubPro Tip: Macro Security Settings
If you encounter security warnings when running VBA code:
- Go to File > Options > Trust Center
- Click Trust Center Settings
- Select Macro Settings
- Choose Enable all macros (not recommended; potentially dangerous code can run)
- Remember to reset security settings after use
Online Tools for Excel Password Removal
Online tools provide the fastest and most user-friendly method to decrypt Excel files without passwords. These services handle the technical complexity behind the scenes, making password removal accessible to everyone.
Excel-Decoder.Online: The Complete Solution
Excel-Decoder.Online is a specialized tool designed specifically for removing Excel password protection and read-only restrictions. It offers several advantages over manual methods:
Instant Processing
Upload your file and get the unlocked version in seconds, no waiting or complex steps required
No Software Installation
Works entirely in your browser, compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, and mobile devices
All Excel Formats
Supports .xlsx, .xls, and legacy Excel formats with all types of password protection
Secure Processing
Files are processed securely and automatically deleted after download, ensuring your data privacy
Free to Use
No subscription required, completely free service for all Excel password removal needs
Preserves Formatting
Maintains all formulas, formatting, charts, and data integrity during the unlock process
How to Use Excel-Decoder.Online
- 1.Visit excel-decoder.online
- 2.Click the upload area or drag and drop your password-protected Excel file
- 3.If you know the password, enter it (optional - helps with encrypted files)
- 4.Click the UNLOCK button
- 5.Wait a few seconds while the file is processed
- 6.Your unlocked Excel file will automatically download
- 7.Open the downloaded file in Excel - all protections removed!
Why Choose Online Tools Over Manual Methods?
| Aspect | Online Tools | Manual Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Time Required | Under 30 seconds | 5-15 minutes |
| Technical Skill | None required | Intermediate to advanced |
| Success Rate | 95%+ for all protection types | Varies (50-90%) |
| Risk of Error | Minimal | High (file corruption possible) |
| Batch Processing | Easy (upload multiple files) | Tedious and time-consuming |
| Platform Support | All (Windows, Mac, Linux, mobile) | Limited (mostly Windows) |
Comparison of Methods: Which is Best?
Each method for removing read-only recommendations and decrypting Excel files has its strengths and limitations. Here's a comprehensive comparison to help you choose the best approach for your situation.
| Method | Best For | Difficulty | Speed | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Tool (Excel-Decoder) | All users, all protection types | Easy | Fast (<30s) | Very High |
| VBA Code Method | Worksheet/workbook protection | Moderate | Moderate (1-2 min) | High |
| ZIP File Method | .xlsx worksheet protection | Hard | Slow (5-10 min) | Moderate |
| File Properties Method | Read-only recommendations only | Easy | Fast (<1 min) | Very High |
| Google Sheets Method | Simple protection, small files | Easy | Moderate (2-5 min) | Low-Moderate |
Decision Framework: Choosing the Right Method
Use Online Tools (Excel-Decoder) If:
- You need fast results without technical hassle
- You have file encryption passwords (can't open the file)
- You're working on Mac, Linux, or mobile devices
- You have multiple files to process
- You want guaranteed results with minimal risk
Use VBA Code Method If:
- You have basic VBA knowledge
- You're dealing with worksheet/workbook protection only
- You prefer offline solutions
- You want to automate the process for future use
- Privacy concerns prevent using online tools
Use File Properties Method If:
- You only need to remove read-only recommendations
- The file has no password protection
- You want the simplest possible solution
- You're working with your own created files
Use ZIP File Method If:
- You have .xlsx files (not .xls)
- You're comfortable with XML editing
- You want to understand the file structure
- Other methods have failed
- You have time for manual technical work
Recommended Approach for Most Users
For the majority of users, online tools like Excel-Decoder provide the best balance of ease, speed, and reliability. They eliminate the need for technical knowledge while handling all types of Excel protection effectively.
Start with the simplest method for your situation, and escalate to more advanced techniques only if needed. Always maintain backups of original files before attempting any password removal method.
Security and Legal Considerations
Before removing passwords or read-only restrictions from Excel files, it's crucial to understand the security implications and legal boundaries. Responsible use ensures you stay compliant and protect sensitive information.
When is Password Removal Legal?
Legitimate Use Cases:
- ✓You created the file and forgot your own password
- ✓You have written authorization from the file owner
- ✓You inherited files from a departed employee with company approval
- ✓You purchased a template or document that includes password removal rights
- ✓Educational purposes on files you own or have permission to use
Illegal or Unethical Use Cases:
- ✗Accessing confidential business documents without authorization
- ✗Bypassing protection on copyrighted or licensed content
- ✗Circumventing security on files from competitors or other organizations
- ✗Removing protection to distribute or sell protected content
- ✗Accessing personal files belonging to others without consent
Data Privacy and Security Best Practices
When Using Online Tools:
- Choose reputable services with clear privacy policies (like Excel-Decoder)
- Verify that files are deleted after processing
- Use HTTPS connections to prevent data interception
- Avoid uploading files with highly sensitive personal or financial data
- Check for security certifications and user reviews
When Using Manual Methods:
- Work on a copy of the original file, never the original
- Ensure your computer has updated antivirus software
- Be cautious when running VBA code from untrusted sources
- Store unlocked files in secure locations with appropriate access controls
- Document your authorization to remove protection for compliance purposes
Corporate and Compliance Considerations
If you're working in a corporate environment, additional considerations apply:
- Document Management Policies: Follow your organization's policies regarding password-protected documents and archive them properly
- Audit Trails: Maintain records of who removed protection, when, and why for compliance audits
- Data Classification: Understand the sensitivity level of data before removing protection
- IT Department Approval: Consult IT or security teams before using third-party tools on company data
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure password removal doesn't violate industry regulations (GDPR, HIPAA, SOX, etc.)
Important Disclaimer
The techniques described in this guide are intended for legitimate use on files you own or have explicit permission to modify. Unauthorized access to password-protected files may violate laws such as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) in the United States or similar laws in other countries. Always ensure you have legal authorization before removing password protection.
Tips to Prevent Future Password Issues
Prevention is better than cure. Implement these strategies to avoid password-related issues with your Excel files in the future.
Password Management Best Practices
Use a Password Manager
Store all your Excel file passwords in a reputable password manager like 1Password, LastPass, or Bitwarden. This ensures you never lose access to protected files.
Document Protection Policies
Create a team document listing which files are protected, why, and who has access. Share this with relevant team members for reference.
Use Descriptive Filenames
Include hints about protection status in filenames, like "Budget_2025_Protected.xlsx" to remind yourself that a password is required.
Regular Backup Strategy
Maintain both protected and unprotected versions of critical files in secure backups. This provides a fallback if passwords are lost.
Implement Access Control
For shared files, use SharePoint or OneDrive permissions instead of Excel passwords. This provides better control and audit trails.
Educate Team Members
Train your team on when to use protection, how to manage passwords, and organizational policies for sensitive documents.
Alternative Protection Methods
Consider these modern alternatives to traditional Excel passwords:
1. Microsoft 365 Information Rights Management (IRM)
Provides enterprise-level protection with granular permissions, expiration dates, and the ability to revoke access remotely. No passwords to remember.
2. SharePoint/OneDrive Permissions
Control who can view, edit, or download files through cloud-based permissions. Centralized management with audit logs.
3. Azure AD Integration
Tie file access to corporate identity management. Users authenticate once and access is managed centrally.
4. Excel Protected Views
Use Excel's built-in protected view feature for files from external sources, reducing the need for passwords while maintaining security.
Organizational Password Policy Template
Implement these guidelines in your organization to prevent password-related issues:
- 1.Classification: Define which documents require password protection based on sensitivity levels
- 2.Password Standards: Establish minimum complexity requirements (length, characters) for Excel passwords
- 3.Storage Requirements: Mandate use of approved password managers for all protected files
- 4.Access Delegation: Ensure at least two people have access to critical protected files
- 5.Regular Reviews: Quarterly audits of password-protected files to remove obsolete protection
- 6.Offboarding Process: Document and transfer passwords when employees leave
- 7.Recovery Procedures: Establish approved methods for password recovery (like excel-decoder.online)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I remove the password from an Excel file without knowing the password?
Yes, you can remove passwords from Excel files without knowing the original password using several methods. Online tools like excel-decoder.online provide the easiest solution, working for both worksheet protection and file encryption. Alternatively, you can use VBA code for worksheet protection or the ZIP file method for .xlsx files, though these require more technical expertise.
2. How do I remove read only recommendation in Excel permanently?
To permanently remove read only recommendation in Excel:
- Open the file in Excel (click "No" when prompted for read-only)
- Go to File > Info > Protect Workbook
- Click "Always Open Read-Only" to toggle it off
- Save the file with Ctrl + S
Alternatively, use File > Save As > Tools > General Options and uncheck "Read-only recommended" before saving.
3. Is it legal to decrypt Excel files without a password?
It is legal to decrypt Excel files you own or have explicit permission to access. Legal scenarios include recovering your own forgotten passwords, accessing files from departed employees with company authorization, or working with files you have written permission to unlock. It is illegal to bypass password protection on files you don't own or have no authorization to access, as this may violate computer fraud laws and intellectual property rights.
4. What's the difference between worksheet protection and file encryption in Excel?
Worksheet protection prevents users from editing specific cells or making structural changes to sheets, but the file can still be opened. File encryption (also called "password to open") prevents opening the file entirely without the correct password. Worksheet protection is easier to remove using VBA code or ZIP file methods, while file encryption typically requires specialized tools or services like excel-decoder.online for removal.
5. Will removing password protection affect my Excel file data or formatting?
When done correctly, removing password protection should not affect your data or formatting. Reputable online tools like excel-decoder.online preserve all formulas, formatting, charts, and data integrity during the unlock process. However, when using manual methods like the ZIP file technique or VBA code, there's a small risk of file corruption if not executed properly. Always create a backup copy of your original file before attempting any password removal method.
6. Can I remove passwords from multiple Excel files at once?
Yes, batch password removal is possible. Online tools like excel-decoder.online allow you to process multiple files sequentially for convenience. For automated batch processing, you can create VBA macros that loop through multiple files in a folder and remove worksheet/workbook protection from each one. However, file encryption passwords on multiple files typically require individual processing unless you use enterprise-level software solutions.
7. Are online Excel password removal tools safe to use?
Reputable online tools with clear privacy policies and HTTPS connections are generally safe for non-sensitive files. Excel-decoder.online, for example, processes files securely and automatically deletes them after download. However, avoid uploading files containing highly sensitive personal, financial, or proprietary business information to any online service. For maximum security with sensitive files, use offline methods like VBA code or consult your IT department for approved enterprise solutions.
8. Why can't I edit an Excel file even after removing the password?
If you still can't edit after removing the password, check these common issues:
- The file may have multiple layers of protection (worksheet + workbook + file encryption)
- The file might be set as read-only at the file system level (check Windows File Properties)
- You may only have removed one type of protection - verify all protection types are cleared
- The file could be marked as Final (File > Info > Protect Workbook > Mark as Final)
- Excel might be in Protected View mode - click "Enable Editing" at the top of the window
Conclusion
Removing read-only recommendations and decrypting Excel files without passwords is achievable through multiple methods, each suited to different scenarios and skill levels. Whether you choose the simplicity of online tools like excel-decoder.online, the technical approach of VBA code, or manual methods like ZIP file editing, you now have the knowledge to regain access to your important Excel documents.
Remember to always use these techniques responsibly and legally, only on files you own or have explicit permission to modify. Implement proper password management practices and organizational policies to prevent future access issues and maintain document security.
For the fastest, most reliable results with minimal technical hassle, online tools remain the recommended solution for most users. They combine ease of use with professional-grade effectiveness, making Excel password removal accessible to everyone.