How to Password-Protect an Excel File
Four clicks encrypt the file — and one critical warning: Excel offers no official way to recover that password. Plus the difference between locking the whole file and protecting just the sheet.
- Open the document in Excel.
- File → Info → "Protect Workbook" → "Encrypt with Password".
- Type the password → OK → confirm it again.
- Save the file so the protection takes effect.
Critical warning: Excel offers no official way to recover this password if you forget it — the file becomes permanently inaccessible. Store it in a password manager before closing the file.
Protecting only certain cells (not the whole file)
If you want others to see the content but not modify it: select the cells → right-click → "Format Cells" → "Protection" tab → then "Review" → "Protect Sheet" — it allows viewing without editing.
An important distinction: encrypting with a password (the first option) prevents OPENING the file without the key. Protecting the sheet (the second option) allows opening and viewing it, but blocks changes to its content — different protections for different needs.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I forget the password of a protected Excel file?
There is no official way to recover it — the file becomes permanently inaccessible. Always store the password somewhere safe, such as a password manager, before closing the file.
What is the difference between encrypting the file and protecting the sheet?
Encrypting with a password prevents opening the file without the key. Protecting the sheet allows viewing it freely, but blocks changes to its content — different protections for different needs.