How to Turn Off Protected View in Excel

If you have tried opening an Excel file recently, you may have come across the Protected View feature that can sometimes prevent you from making any changes to the document. The feature is designed to protect your computer from potential threats. However, it can be annoying when you have to go through multiple pop-ups to confirm that you trust the file. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to turn off the Protected View feature in Excel so that you can seamlessly work on your files without any interruptions.

What is Protected View in Excel?

Protected View in Excel is a feature designed to keep your computer and data safe from potentially harmful files. When you open a file that has been downloaded from the internet or an external source, Excel automatically opens it in Protected View. In Protected View, you are not allowed to edit the contents of a file, and certain features are disabled to keep your computer safe. However, you can easily turn off this feature if you trust the source of the file.

How to Turn Off Protected View

Turning off Protected View in Excel is a quick and easy process. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Open Excel Options

Launch Microsoft Excel and click on the “File” menu. From the options, select “Options.” This will take you to the Excel Options dialogue box.

Step 2: Navigate to Trust Center

In the Excel Options dialogue box, click on “Trust Center” on the left-hand side. Once you click on it, you will see another set of options displayed. Click on “Trust Center Settings” to proceed.

Step 3: Disable Protected View

In the Trust Center dialogue box, navigate to the “Protected View” section. Here, you will see three options labeled “Enable Protected View for files originating from the Internet,” “Enable Protected View for files located in potentially unsafe locations,” and “Enable Protected View for Outlook attachments.” To disable Protected View, uncheck the boxes for these options or select “Off” under each. When you have finished, click on “OK” to save your changes.

Protected View is a useful feature that keeps your computer safe from potentially harmful files. However, if you trust the source of the file, you can disable this feature by following the steps outlined above. By turning off Protected View, you can work on your Excel files without any interruptions or restrictions.

When Should You Turn Off Protected View?

While Protected View is an essential security feature in Excel, it can sometimes be a hassle when you need to work on a file that you know is safe. If you are working on a file that you have created or files from a trusted source, you can safely turn off Protected View. However, if you are receiving files from unknown sources or files that you downloaded from the internet, it is best to leave Protected View enabled. You can also use the Trust Center to add trusted locations that Excel automatically opens in Protected View, giving you more control over your computer’s security.

Final Thoughts

Excel’s Protected View feature is designed to protect your computer and your data from potentially harmful files. While it can be irritating, especially when working with trusted files, leaving Protected View enabled can help prevent malware attacks or data theft. However, if you trust the origin of the file, follow the steps above to disable the feature. By disabling the feature, you can work with your Excel files seamlessly without the unnecessary interruptions or restrictions.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about turning off Protected View in Excel:

Can I turn off Protected View for all files?

Yes, it is possible to disable the Protected View feature for all files in Excel by going to the Trust Center, selecting the Protected View section, and unchecking the three options: “Enable Protected View for files originating from the Internet”, “Enable Protected View for files located in potentially unsafe locations”, and “Enable Protected View for Outlook attachments”. However, we do not recommend disabling it in all cases as this feature keeps your computer safe from potential threats.

How can I add a trusted location in Excel?

You can add a trusted location in Excel by going to the Trust Center, selecting the “Trusted Locations” section, clicking on the “Add new location” button, and then browsing for the folder or network location that you want to add. By adding a location in your computer or network, Excel will automatically open files in that location without Protected View.

What happens when I turn off Protected View in Excel?

When you turn off Protected View in Excel, you will be able to open files without receiving the warning message that you are in Protected View. This means that you can edit the contents of the file and use all the features in Excel without any restrictions. However, you will also be disabling a security feature designed to protect your computer from potentially harmful files, so only turn off Protected View for trusted files and sources.

How do I know if I am in Protected View?

You can tell if you are in Protected View in Excel by looking at the top of the file window. If you see the “Protected View” label, you are in Protected View. There will also be a yellow banner or message bar that reads “PROTECTED VIEW” at the top of the file.

Can I edit a file in Protected View?

No, you cannot edit a file in Protected View in Excel. Protected View disables certain features and commands, preventing you from making any changes to the file. To make changes to the file, you will need to exit Protected View and enable editing.