Protecting an Excel sheet is a great way to prevent accidental changes—but what happens when you need access again? Whether you remember the password or completely forgot it, Excel gives you multiple ways to unprotect a sheet on Windows, Mac, mobile, and iPhone.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to unprotect a sheet in Excel with password, without password, and even on Excel Mobile, explained step by step for beginners.
Why Excel Sheets Get Protected
Excel sheet protection is commonly used to:
- Lock formulas from being edited
- Prevent accidental deletion of data
- Share files safely with teams
- Control what users can or can’t change
If you’re also dealing with Excel keyboard issues, check this quick fix guide on how to disable Scroll Lock in Excel on Windows and Mac.
How to Unprotect a Sheet in Excel With Password (Windows)
If you know the password, this is the fastest method.
Steps:
- Open your Excel file
- Click the protected sheet tab
- Go to Review → Unprotect Sheet
- Enter the password
- Click OK
✅ The sheet is now fully editable.
How to Unprotect a Sheet in Excel Forgot Password (No Password)
Forgot the password? Don’t panic. While Excel doesn’t officially allow password recovery, there are safe workaround methods.
Method 1: VBA Code (Works on Older Excel Files)
- Effective for
.xlsfiles - Not guaranteed for newer encrypted
.xlsxfiles
⚠️ Use this only on files you own or have permission to edit.
Method 2: Restore From Backup
- Check OneDrive or Google Drive version history
- Restore a version before protection was applied
If Excel freezes or crashes while trying these methods, you may find this Windows fix helpful:
👉 How to fix Driver Power State Failure in Windows 11/10
How to Unprotect a Sheet in Excel Without Password (Limitations)
Short answer: You can’t officially unprotect a modern Excel sheet without the password.
However, you can:
- Copy visible data into a new sheet (if copy is allowed)
- Request the password from the file owner
- Use third-party tools (some cost $20–$50)
💡 Always verify software authenticity before downloading.
How to Unprotect a Sheet in Excel on Mac
Mac users can follow almost identical steps.
Steps:
- Open Excel for Mac
- Click the protected sheet
- Select Review → Unprotect Sheet
- Enter the password
Works on macOS Ventura, Monterey, and Sonoma.
How to Unprotect a Sheet in Excel Mobile (Android)
Excel Mobile has limited editing features.
Steps:
- Open Excel app
- Open the protected file
- If password-protected, you must enter the password
- Editing becomes available automatically
❌ Excel Mobile does not support bypassing protection.
How to Unprotect a Sheet in Excel on iPhone
Using Excel on iOS? The rules are similar.
Steps:
- Open Excel app on iPhone
- Open the sheet
- Enter the password when prompted
- Tap Edit
🔒 If you don’t know the password, unprotecting is not possible on iPhone.
Pro Tips Before Unprotecting Excel Sheets
- Always keep a backup before removing protection
- Avoid online “cracked Excel” tools
- Use strong passwords you can remember
- Store passwords securely
If you manage files across devices, you might also like:
👉 How to put apps on home screen in Windows 10/11
Frequently Asked Questions (Quick Answers)
Can I unprotect an Excel sheet without a password?
Only in limited cases. Modern Excel encryption prevents password removal without the correct key.
Does Excel Mobile allow sheet unprotection?
Yes—but only if you know the password.
Is VBA safe for unprotecting Excel sheets?
Yes, if used on your own files and older Excel formats.
Are paid Excel recovery tools worth it?
Some work, but prices usually range from $20 to $50. Results aren’t guaranteed.
Conclusion
Knowing how to unprotect a sheet in Excel can save hours of frustration—especially when deadlines are tight. Whether you’re on Windows, Mac, iPhone, or Excel Mobile, the steps are simple if you have the password. Without it, your options are limited—but not impossible.
Always protect your files wisely, keep backups, and use trusted tools only.