Microsoft Excel has always been suspicious of files with macros – especially if they are downloaded from some untrusted source, such as the Internet. And this is quite justified and understandable – no one canceled macro viruses. This was expressed in the appearance of something like this message when opening the book:
However, since recent (March-April 2022 updates) things have become more severe:
Not only did the color of the warning change from yellow to red, but – much sadder – the button disappeared Enable content (Enable content), which allowed you to unlock macros if you still need them. Pressing the same button additional information does not resolve anything, but only takes you to a site with Microsoft help on this topic.
Attempts to turn off macros in the standard way through the tab Developer – Macro Security (Developer — Macro Security) also lead to nothing – the lock is not removed:
What to do if you need the macros in the downloaded file for work and need to unlock them?
Method 1. Removing the lock in the file properties
Right-click on the file and select command Materials (Properties). In the window that opens, check the box Unlock (Unblock):
Click on OK and the problem is solved. But this will have to be done with each file individually.
Method 2: Trusted Locations
Another way is to add the folder where your books with macros blocked in them are to the list of trusted locations, i.e. sources that Excel trusts a priori. Then you do not have to unlock each file individually.
For this we go to File – Options – Trust Center – Trust Center Settings – Trusted Locations (File — Options — Trust Center — Trust Center Settings — Trusted Locations):
Press the button Add new location and specify the folder with the files. Then we push everything OK and restart Excel for the setting to take effect.
That’s all – and our macros are back in the ranks 🙂
- How to use the Personal MacroWorkbook
- What are macros and how to apply, run and copy them