Unlock Microsoft Office File

 

A potentially dangerous macro has been blocked

Macros can add a lot of functionality to Office, but they are often used by people with bad intentions to distribute malware to unsuspecting victims.

Macros aren't required for everyday use like reading or editing a document in Word or using Excel workbooks. In most cases you can do everything you need to do in Office without allowing macros to run.

Note: If you're an IT pro looking to configure this setting, or if you just want more advanced technical details, see Macros from the internet will be blocked by default in Office.

What should I do now?

Still wondering if you should proceed?

If a downloaded file from the internet or a file opened from a network share wants you to allow macros, and you're not certain what those macros do, you should probably just delete that file. 

If you’re sure the file is safe and want to unblock macros

There are a few different ways to do it, depending on your situation.

Unblock a single file

In most cases you can unblock macros by modifying the properties of the file as follows:

  1. Open Windows File Explorer and go to the folder where you saved the file.

  2. Right-click the file and choose Properties from the context menu.

  3. At the bottom of the General tab, select the Unblock checkbox and selectOK.

In file properties, near the bottom of the General tab, is a Security section with a checkbox for unblocking the file.


Revision #2
Created 19 August 2023 21:24:18
Updated 19 January 2024 18:19:58