To reiterate:
Create a copy of your file. Change the extension of the copy from .xlsx to .zip .
For older Excel formats ( .xls ), a VBA script can brute-force the sheet protection password. This is a "technical" approach but effective for simple protections. crack password of excel sheet
To choose the right method to , you must first understand what type of protection is applied. Excel security is not "one size fits all." There are generally two types of protection:
With that out of the way, let’s explore the different types of Excel passwords, the methods to remove or crack them, and the best tools available in 2025. To reiterate: Create a copy of your file
Open the ZIP folder and navigate to the folder path: xl > worksheets .
: Opening these files in a text editor like Notepad allows a user to search for a tag starting with This is a "technical" approach but effective for
For older .xls files or users comfortable with macros, a VBA script can brute-force the protection. How to unprotect Excel sheet if forgot the password
If you are locked out, follow this decision tree: