LostMyPasswordExcel (.xls, .xlsx)
How to Remove an Excel File Password You Already Know
If you can open an Excel workbook with its password, you can generally save a copy without the open password using Excel’s encryption settings.
Identify the protection before choosing a tool
| What you see | Possible cause | What to check next |
|---|---|---|
| Password before cells appear | File-open encryption | Use the file password or investigate authorized recovery. |
| Cells visible, edits blocked | Worksheet or access restriction | Check Review, the selected sheet and your sharing permissions. |
| Cannot add or rename sheet tabs | Workbook structure protection | Ask for the workbook structure password; it may differ from a sheet password. |
Practical steps for this situation
Open with the current file password
Open the .xls or .xlsx with its current file password. If only a sheet is protected, use the separate worksheet workflow instead.
Locate the encryption setting
In supported Windows desktop Excel versions, open File, Info, Protect Workbook, Encrypt with Password. Interface labels and availability can differ on Mac or the web.
Clear the file-open password
Clear the password field and confirm the dialog. This changes the file-open protection setting; it does not necessarily remove sheet or structure passwords.
Save a separate workbook
Save a separate copy in the required format. Keep the protected original until formulas, charts, links and other workbook features have been checked.
Close and reopen the result
Close Excel and reopen the new copy to confirm no file-open password is requested. If protection is required for sharing, apply an appropriate new password and store it safely.
Questions about this workflow
Can I remove the Excel password without opening the file?
Not through the normal Excel interface; you need access first.
Is this the same as unprotecting a sheet?
No. Sheet editing restrictions and password-to-open encryption are different.
Official references
Editorial review: October 28, 2026. Interface labels vary by version. Instructions are based on the linked documentation; no recovery speed benchmark or success-rate test is claimed.