5 Ways to Unprotect Excel Sheets Without Password 2021

Excel spreadsheets are powerful tools for managing data, performing complex calculations, and creating dynamic reports. However, securing these spreadsheets with passwords is a common practice to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. Sometimes, you might find yourself locked out of your own spreadsheets due to forgotten passwords or inherited sheets without access. In this detailed guide, we'll explore five methods to unprotect Excel sheets without needing the original password, ensuring you can regain access to your important data securely.

1. Using VBA Macro to Remove Sheet Protection

If you have programming skills or are willing to use pre-written code, Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) offers a straightforward way to remove sheet protection:

• Open your Excel workbook.
• Press ALT + F11 to open the VBA editor.
• Click on Insert > Module to add a new module.
• Paste the following VBA code into the module:

Sub UnprotectSheet()
    Dim sheet As Worksheet
    For Each sheet In ThisWorkbook.Sheets
        sheet.Unprotect Password:=“”
    Next sheet
End Sub

🚫 Note: This method removes the protection from all sheets in the workbook. Exercise caution if the workbook contains sensitive data.

2. Using Built-In Excel Functions

If you’re locked out of your workbook or worksheet due to a forgotten password, Excel offers an unexpected workaround with the following steps:

• Open your Excel file.
• Select the protected sheet.
• Type any text into any cell, then press Enter.
• Click on File > Save As.
• Save the file as an Excel Binary Workbook (*.xlsb).
• Reopen the newly saved file. Often, the protection is lost in the binary format.

3. Using Online Tools or Third-Party Software

Various online services and third-party software exist that claim to unprotect Excel files. Here’s how to proceed:

• Search for reputable tools designed specifically for Excel password recovery or removal.
• Follow the tool’s instructions to upload your Excel file.
• After processing, download the unprotected file.

🔍 Note: Always be cautious with online tools. Ensure you use trusted sources to avoid potential malware or data leaks.

4. Hex Editor Method

This method involves using a hex editor to edit the binary structure of an Excel file:

• Open the Excel file with a hex editor like HxD.
• Search for “DPB” in the hex view, which represents the protection marker.
• Replace “DPB” with “DPx”.
• Save and close the file. When you open it in Excel, the protection might be gone.

5. VBA Script with Formula Injection

This method leverages Excel’s formula calculation:

• Create a new Excel file.
• Open VBA editor (ALT + F11).
• Insert a new module and paste this code:

Sub RemoveSheetPassword()
    Dim i As Integer, j As Integer, k As Integer
    Dim l As Integer
    Dim m As Integer
    Dim Sheet As Worksheet
    Dim Password As String
    Application.ScreenUpdating = False

For Each Sheet In ActiveWorkbook.Worksheets
    Sheet.Unprotect
Next Sheet

For i = 65 To 66: For j = 65 To 66: For k = 65 To 66
For l = 32 To 126
    Password = Chr(i) & Chr(j) & Chr(k) & Chr(l)
    On Error Resume Next
    ActiveSheet.Unprotect Password
    If ActiveSheet.ProtectContents = False Then
        MsgBox "One usable password is " & Password
        Exit Sub
    End If
Next: Next: Next: Next


End Sub

Run the macro, and Excel will attempt different passwords based on the provided code’s logic.

⏰ Note: This method can be time-consuming, especially for complex passwords.

In this guide, we've explored various methods to unprotect Excel sheets without the password, ranging from VBA scripting to the use of hex editors and online tools. Each method has its merits, and the choice depends on your comfort level with technology, the urgency of access, and the sensitivity of the data involved. Always remember that bypassing security measures should be done responsibly and legally.

What should I do if none of these methods work?

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If none of the methods work, consider seeking professional help from data recovery services or exploring advanced password cracking tools designed for Excel.

Is it safe to use online tools for removing Excel protection?

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While it can be safe with reputable tools, there’s always a risk of data exposure or security breaches. Use tools from known and trusted sources, and always backup your files before uploading.

Can these methods unlock a workbook password as well as a sheet password?

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Not all methods work for both workbook and sheet protection. The VBA methods are generally more effective for sheet protection, while online tools might be better for workbook-level protection.