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7 Easy Ways To Remove Macro Password From Excel

Nov 15, 2024 · 11 min read

7 Easy Ways To Remove Macro Password From Excel

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When it comes to Excel, macros can be incredibly useful, but they can also come with the frustration of password protection. Whether you’ve forgotten the password for your own workbook or have inherited a file with a locked macro, fear not! There are several methods to tackle this challenge. In this post, we’ll explore 7 easy ways to remove a macro password from Excel, along with some handy tips and common mistakes to avoid.

Understanding Excel Macro Passwords 🔐

Excel macros are scripts written in VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) that allow you to automate tasks. To protect these macros from unauthorized changes, Excel allows you to set a password. However, forgetting this password can block access to your macros and cause major headaches. Let’s explore some effective methods to regain access!

Method 1: Use a VBA Code Snippet

One of the simplest ways to remove a macro password is by using a VBA code snippet. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open Excel and press ALT + F11 to open the VBA editor.

  2. Click on Insert > Module.

  3. Copy and paste the following code:

    Sub PasswordBreaker()
    Dim i As Integer, j As Integer, k As Integer
    Dim l As Integer, m As Integer, n As Integer
    Dim password As String
    Dim tempPassword As String
    Dim originalPassword As String
    
    On Error Resume Next
    For i = 65 To 90
        For j = 65 To 90
            For k = 65 To 90
                For l = 65 To 90
                    For m = 65 To 90
                        For n = 65 To 90
                            tempPassword = Chr(i) & Chr(j) & Chr(k) & Chr(l) & Chr(m) & Chr(n)
                            ActiveWorkbook.VBProject.VBComponents(1).CodeModule.ReplaceLine 1, "Sub x() : End Sub"
                            ActiveWorkbook.VBProject.VBComponents(1).CodeModule.AddFromString "Sub x() : End Sub"
                            If ActiveWorkbook.VBProject.VBComponents(1).CodeModule.ProcStartLine("x", vbext_pt_Proc) > 0 Then
                                originalPassword = tempPassword
                                Exit Sub
                            End If
                        Next n
                    Next m
                Next l
            Next k
        Next j
    Next i
    MsgBox "Password is: " & originalPassword
End Sub

  4. Close the editor and run the macro by pressing F5.

This method tries numerous combinations of characters to find the password, so it may take some time.

<p class="pro-note">💡Pro Tip: Always make sure to back up your files before attempting password recovery methods!</p>

Method 2: Use a Hex Editor

For the more tech-savvy, using a hex editor is a viable option. Here's how:

  1. Create a copy of the file to avoid data loss.
  2. Change the file extension from .xlsm to .zip.
  3. Open the zip file using a hex editor.
  4. Find the vbaProject.bin file and open it.
  5. Search for the string DPB and replace it with DPx.
  6. Save your changes and revert the file extension back to .xlsm.

Upon reopening your Excel file, the password should be removed.

Method 3: Utilize Third-Party Software

There are plenty of software tools available specifically for removing Excel macro passwords. Some popular options include:

  • Excel Password Recovery Lastic
  • Excel Password Remover
  • PassFab for Excel

These programs typically come with user-friendly interfaces. Just follow their prompts to remove the password quickly.

Method 4: Re-create the Macro in a New Workbook

If all else fails, a guaranteed way to recover is to re-create the macro from scratch:

  1. Open a new Excel workbook.
  2. Copy the data and functions from the locked workbook.
  3. Create new macros in the new workbook.

This may be a lengthy process, but it’s effective.

Method 5: Open the File in OpenOffice

OpenOffice is another alternative that can sometimes bypass Excel's macro password. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Download OpenOffice if you don’t already have it.
  2. Open the locked Excel file in OpenOffice.
  3. Save the file in .xls format.

Upon re-opening in Excel, the password might be removed, allowing you to edit the macros.

Method 6: Use Excel VBA Password Remover Tools

Some specialized tools are designed to help remove Excel passwords, including for macros. Examples include:

  • VBA Password Remover
  • VBA Password Recovery

These tools typically offer a straightforward approach where you simply upload your Excel file and follow the provided instructions.

Method 7: Restore Previous Versions

If you've created backups or are using a cloud service, try restoring previous versions:

  1. Right-click on the file in File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac).
  2. Select Restore previous versions.
  3. Browse through the available versions and check if there’s an earlier version without a macro password.

Tips for Successful Password Recovery

  • Always back up files before attempting to remove passwords. This can save you from potential data loss.
  • Be patient with methods that involve coding or extensive searching, as they may take longer depending on the complexity of the password.
  • Avoid common mistakes such as using incorrect file formats or overlooking step-by-step procedures.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  1. If a macro isn’t running after password removal, ensure macros are enabled in your Excel settings.
  2. Facing errors during VBA script execution? Double-check for syntax errors or missing components in your VBA editor.
  3. Not finding your password? Consider using a different method, as some passwords may not be recoverable with specific techniques.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I recover my macro password for free?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, several free methods such as using VBA code snippets can help recover macro passwords.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Will these methods damage my file?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Most methods are safe, but it’s recommended to create a backup of your file before attempting password recovery.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What should I do if the password is too complex?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Consider using third-party password recovery tools that can handle complex passwords effectively.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are there legal issues with removing macro passwords?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, ensure that you have permission to modify the file before attempting to remove any passwords.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

By following these methods, you can regain access to your macro-filled Excel files without unnecessary stress. Remember, while it’s great to have automation at your fingertips, always keep those passwords secured and backed up! Explore related tutorials and keep enhancing your Excel skills.

<p class="pro-note">🌟Pro Tip: The best way to prevent future password headaches is to keep a secure record of all your passwords!</p>

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