Unlock Protected Excel Sheets in 2016: No Password Needed

Are you facing the dilemma of having to edit an Excel worksheet but it's password protected? No worries, even if you've forgotten the password, this guide will walk you through several methods to unlock protected Excel sheets in Microsoft Excel 2016 without needing the password. From using the built-in options of Excel to employing external tools, we'll cover all the bases to help you regain access to your crucial data.

Method 1: Using the Unprotect Sheet Option

Sometimes, Excel 2016 files come with default security settings that you can easily bypass if you know where to look:

• Open your protected Excel workbook.
• Go to the “Review” tab in the Ribbon.
• Under “Changes” group, click on “Unprotect Sheet.”
• If the sheet isn’t protected with a strong password, it might unlock immediately.

🔍 Note: This method might not work if the sheet is secured with a strong password.

Method 2: Use VBA Macro

For those comfortable with Excel macros, VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) can be a lifesaver:

• Open your Excel file.
• Press Alt + F11 to open the VBA editor.
• Click on “Insert” and then “Module” to create a new module.
• Paste the following code into the module:

Sub PasswordBreaker()
    Dim i As Integer, j As Integer, k As Integer
    Dim l As Integer, m As Integer, n As Integer
    Dim i1 As Integer, j1 As Integer, k1 As Integer
    Dim l1 As Integer, m1 As Integer, n1 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 j1 = 65 To 66: For k1 = 65 To 66: For l1 = 65 To 66
    For m1 = 65 To 66: For n1 = 65 To 66
    For n = 32 To 126
        ActiveSheet.Unprotect Chr(i) & Chr(j) & Chr(k) & _
            Chr(l) & Chr(m) & Chr(i1) & Chr(j1) & Chr(k1) & _
            Chr(l1) & Chr(m1) & Chr(n1) & 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(j1) & _
                Chr(k1) & Chr(l1) & Chr(m1) & Chr(n1) & Chr(n)
            Exit Sub
        End If
    Next: Next: Next: Next: Next: Next
    Next: Next: Next: Next: Next: Next
End Sub

• Close the VBA editor and go back to Excel.
• Run the macro by clicking on "Developer" tab (you might need to enable it in Excel Options), then click "Macros" > "PasswordBreaker" > "Run."

Please be aware that this approach is time-consuming for very complex passwords but effective for simpler passwords.

Method 3: Utilizing Online Password Recovery Tools

If the previous methods are unsuccessful, various online tools exist to crack or recover Excel passwords:

• Find a reliable password recovery tool like LostMyPass or iSunshare Excel Password Remover.
• Follow the tool’s instructions to upload your file and start the recovery process.
• Be cautious with these services as they require you to upload your sensitive data.

⚠️ Note: Always back up your file before using third-party tools to avoid accidental data loss.

Method 4: Excel Password Remover Software

Downloadable software can often unlock Excel sheets more efficiently than online tools:

• Choose a reputable password remover like Excel Password Recovery Lastic or Pasenx.
• Install the software on your computer.
• Select the protected Excel file and let the software attempt to unlock it.

Method 5: Manual Inspection

Sometimes, simply inspecting the properties of the Excel file can yield surprising results:

• Right-click the Excel file, choose “Properties.”
• Look for any hints or password suggestions under “Details” or “Security.”
• Try simple passwords like “Excel” or “Password,” as these are often overlooked.

After exploring these methods, you've probably realized that regaining access to a locked Excel sheet can be a bit of a journey. Each method has its advantages, from being built into Excel to requiring specialized software. Remember, patience and due diligence in backing up your work are key, as is ensuring the security of your data when using external tools.

Looking back at our tutorial, here are the takeaways:

• Using Excel’s native functions might offer the simplest solution when passwords are basic.
• VBA macros can provide a universal unlock option, albeit with a runtime cost.
• Online password recovery tools are quick but come with risks regarding data privacy.
• Dedicated software offers a more robust solution for complex passwords.
• Manual inspection can sometimes reveal overlooked clues to passwords.

Is it legal to unlock an Excel sheet without permission?

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Unlocking an Excel sheet without permission might be considered illegal unless you have legal rights or consent to access the information. Always ensure you have the appropriate authorization.

Can I recover passwords in newer versions of Excel?

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Yes, although methods might vary slightly, the principles remain the same. Tools and VBA macros often work across multiple Excel versions.

What if I forget the password to a protected worksheet?

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Try the methods mentioned in this guide, focusing on VBA macros or specialized software which can recover or remove forgotten passwords.