Tutorial · 7 min read
How to Remove a Password from Excel
Unlock XLS and XLSX files safely in your browser without sending them to any server.
Microsoft Excel supports three independent layers of protection: open (file-level) encryption that requires a password to open the workbook, workbook structure protection that prevents adding or deleting sheets, and worksheet protection that locks individual cells or ranges. Each layer is removed differently. This guide focuses on removing open encryption from XLS and XLSX files.
Only unlock Excel files you own or are authorized to modify. PasswordRemover does not crack passwords.
Identify the protection type
If Excel shows a "Password" dialog before the workbook opens at all, the file is encrypted at the file level. You must know the open password to proceed.
If the workbook opens but you cannot insert, rename, or delete sheets, workbook structure protection is active. This is separate from file encryption.
If specific cells show "The cell or chart you are trying to change is protected," a worksheet password is set. Worksheet protection and file encryption are independent — a file can have one, both, or neither.
Remove the open (file-level) password
Open the PasswordRemover Excel Password Remover and select your XLS or XLSX file. The file is processed entirely in your browser.
Enter the current open password. PasswordRemover applies the appropriate decryption algorithm (RC4 for older XLS files, Agile AES for modern XLSX files).
Click "Unlock" and download the decrypted workbook. Reopen it in Excel — it should no longer prompt for a password.
After confirming the result, verify that formulas, pivot tables, charts, and external data connections still function correctly.
Tips
- XLSX files use the Office Open XML Agile Encryption standard (AES-128 or AES-256). XLS files may use RC4 or XOR depending on the version.
- If Excel shows "The file is corrupt and cannot be opened" after unlocking, the workbook may use a non-standard encryption wrapper not covered by the tool.
Remove workbook structure protection
In Excel, go to the Review tab and click "Protect Workbook." If a password was set, enter it in the dialog to remove structure protection. No external tool is needed for this step.
If you do not know the workbook structure password and you own the file, consult your IT administrator or the person who originally protected the workbook.
Remove worksheet protection
Right-click the protected sheet tab and select "Unprotect Sheet." Enter the password if prompted. This is separate from file-level encryption.
The PasswordRemover Worksheet Password Remover tool can assist with worksheet protection in files you are authorized to modify.
Encryption standards by Excel version
Excel 97–2003 (.xls): Uses RC4 with 40-bit or 128-bit keys, or XOR for very old files. These schemes are weaker than modern AES.
Excel 2007–2016 (.xlsx): Uses Office Open XML Agile Encryption with AES-128.
Excel 2019, Microsoft 365 (.xlsx): Defaults to AES-256. Ensure the recipient's software supports this when sharing encrypted workbooks.
Ready to unlock your document?
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