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How to Recover Microsoft Excel Password on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Forgetting the password to a Microsoft Excel file can be frustrating, especially when the data inside is important. Fortunately, there are ways to recover or remove the password on Windows 11 without losing your work.

This guide will take you through simple, step-by-step instructions to regain access to your Excel file. No advanced technical knowledge is needed, and each step is explained clearly.

By following these methods, you can save time and avoid having to recreate your spreadsheet from scratch. Let’s begin with some important checks before diving into recovery options.

Keep in mind that password recovery should only be done on files you own or have permission to access.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks

Before starting, make sure of the following:

  • You have access to the Windows 11 PC where the Excel file is stored.
  • The Microsoft Excel version installed supports the file format (usually .xlsx or .xls).
  • You have the file saved locally (not on cloud storage), as some methods require direct file access.
  • Back up your Excel file before attempting any recovery steps to avoid accidental data loss.

Step 1: Try Simple Password Reminders

Sometimes the easiest way is to recall possible passwords you might have used. Take a moment to think about common passwords or variations you typically use for work documents.

If you have written down your passwords or use a password manager, check there first. This might save you from more complicated recovery processes.

Step 2: Use Excel’s Built-in Password Removal (If You Know the Password)

If you remember the password but want to remove it for easier access in the future, here’s how:

  1. Open the Excel file by entering the password.
  2. Click on File in the top menu.
  3. Select Info and then click Protect Workbook.
  4. Choose Encrypt with Password.
  5. Delete the existing password text and click OK to remove it.
  6. Save the workbook to apply changes.

This step is important because it removes password protection safely without altering your file.

Step 3: Use Password Recovery Software

If you don’t remember the password, specialized software can help recover or remove it. Many options are available, but here’s the general process:

  1. Download a trusted Excel password recovery tool compatible with Windows 11. Examples include PassFab for Excel, Stellar Phoenix Excel Password Recovery, or iSumsoft Excel Password Remover.
  2. Install the software following on-screen instructions.
  3. Open the software and load your locked Excel file.
  4. Choose the recovery method – common methods include:
    • Brute-force attack: Tries all possible combinations. Effective but can take a long time.
    • Dictionary attack: Uses a list of common passwords.
    • Mask attack: If you remember part of the password, this speeds up recovery.
  5. Start the recovery process and wait for the software to find the password.
  6. Once recovered, use it to open your Excel file.

Using recovery software is often the best option when you cannot recall any password hints.

Step 4: Try VBA Macro Method to Remove Password

If your Excel file is protected by a worksheet password (not the entire workbook), you can try a simple VBA macro to remove it.

Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Open a new Excel workbook (not the locked one).
  2. Press Alt + F11 to open the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) editor.
  3. Click Insert > Module.
  4. Copy and paste the following code into the module window:
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, i2 As Integer, i3 As Integer
    Dim i4 As Integer, i5 As Integer, i6 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 i2 = 65 To 66: For i3 = 65 To 66: For i4 = 65 To 66
    For i5 = 65 To 66: For i6 = 65 To 66

        ActiveSheet.Unprotect Chr(i) & Chr(j) & Chr(k) & _
            Chr(l) & Chr(m) & Chr(i1) & Chr(i2) & Chr(i3) & _
            Chr(i4) & Chr(i5) & Chr(i6)

        If ActiveSheet.ProtectContents = False Then
            MsgBox "Password is " & Chr(i) & Chr(j) & Chr(k) & _
                Chr(l) & Chr(m) & Chr(i1) & Chr(i2) & Chr(i3) & _
                Chr(i4) & Chr(i5) & Chr(i6)
            Exit Sub
        End If

    Next: Next: Next: Next: Next: Next
    Next: Next: Next: Next: Next: Next

End Sub
  1. Return to Excel and open your password-protected worksheet.
  2. Press Alt + F8, select PasswordBreaker, and click Run.
  3. The macro will attempt to remove the worksheet password and display it.

This method is useful for simple worksheet passwords but may not work on stronger encryption.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If the above steps do not work, consider these options:

  • Restore from backup: Check if you have an earlier version or backup of the Excel file without a password.
  • Use cloud recovery: If your file is stored in OneDrive or SharePoint, explore version history to restore an unlocked copy.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: For business or enterprise users, official support might offer solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I recover passwords for all Excel versions on Windows 11?

Most recovery methods work for Excel 2007 and later versions (.xlsx files). Older formats like .xls may require different tools.

Is it legal to recover a password on an Excel file?

You should only recover passwords for files you own or have permission to access. Unauthorized access may be illegal.

Will password recovery software damage my Excel file?

Reputable software does not alter the original file; however, always work on a backup copy to be safe.

How long does password recovery take?

It depends on password complexity and the method used. Brute-force attacks can take hours or days, while dictionary attacks are faster.

Can macros remove workbook-level passwords?

Macros typically remove worksheet-level passwords. Workbook encryption is stronger and usually requires dedicated recovery tools.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above methods succeed, consider these final steps:

  • Search for professional password recovery services, but be cautious about sharing sensitive data.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page for Excel password issues: Microsoft Excel Support.
  • Consider rebuilding your spreadsheet if data recovery is impossible.

Conclusion

Recovering a Microsoft Excel password on Windows 11 can be straightforward if you follow the right steps. Start with simple reminders, then try built-in removal or VBA macros for worksheet passwords. If needed, use trusted password recovery software for more complex scenarios.

Always remember to back up your files before attempting recovery and only access files you have permission to use. With patience and the right tools, you can regain access to your important Excel data without hassle.

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