5 Ways To Recover Excel Password

Microsoft Excel is a powerful tool used for creating and managing spreadsheets, but sometimes users forget their passwords, which can be frustrating. Losing access to important data can be stressful, especially when deadlines are looming. Fortunately, there are several methods to recover an Excel password, and we will explore five effective ways to do so.

Excel passwords are used to protect sensitive data, and it's essential to handle them securely. Before we dive into the recovery methods, it's crucial to note that some techniques may require technical expertise, and it's essential to use these methods responsibly. Always ensure you have the right to access the protected data.

Understanding Excel Password Protection

Excel offers two types of password protection: password to open and password to modify. The "password to open" feature encrypts the entire file, while the "password to modify" feature allows users to open the file but restricts editing. Understanding the type of password protection used is essential to choose the right recovery method.

Method 1: Using Excel's Built-in Password Recovery Tool

Excel 2013 and later versions offer a built-in password recovery tool. This method is straightforward and doesn't require any technical expertise.

To use the built-in password recovery tool:

1. Open Excel and go to the "Review" tab.
2. Click on "Protect Workbook" and select "Encrypt with Password."
3. Click on "Options" and select "Password Recovery."
4. Follow the prompts to recover your password.

Method 2: Using VBA Code to Recover Excel Password

VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) code can be used to recover an Excel password. This method requires some technical expertise, but it's effective.

To use VBA code to recover an Excel password:

1. Open Excel and press "Alt + F11" to open the VBA editor.
2. In the VBA editor, go to "Insert" > "Module" to create a new module.
3. Paste the following code into the module:

Sub PasswordRecovery()
  Dim i As Integer
  Dim j As Integer
  Dim k As Integer
  Dim l As Integer
  Dim m As Integer
  Dim n As Integer
  Dim password As String
  For i = 65 To 90
    For j = 65 To 90
      For k = 65 To 90
        For l = 65 To 90
          For m = 65 To 90
            For n = 65 To 90
              password = Chr(i) & Chr(j) & Chr(k) & Chr(l) & Chr(m) & Chr(n)
              If IsPasswordValid(password) Then
                MsgBox "Password recovered: " & password
                Exit Sub
              End If
            Next n
          Next m
        Next l
      Next k
    Next j
  Next i
End Sub

Function IsPasswordValid(password As String) As Boolean
  Dim file As Object
  Set file = CreateObject("Scripting.FileSystemObject")
  If file.OpenTextFile("C:\path\to\your\file.xlsx", 1).ReadAll = password Then
    IsPasswordValid = True
  Else
    IsPasswordValid = False
  End If
End Function

4. Replace "C:\path\to\your\file.xlsx" with the path to your Excel file.
5. Run the code by pressing "F5" or clicking "Run" > "Run Sub/UserForm."

Method 3: Using a Third-Party Password Recovery Tool

Several third-party password recovery tools are available online, such as Password Cracker, Excel Password Recovery, and Password Finder. These tools can recover Excel passwords quickly and efficiently.

To use a third-party password recovery tool:

1. Download and install a reputable password recovery tool.
2. Launch the tool and select the Excel file you want to recover.
3. Follow the tool's instructions to recover your password.

Method 4: Using a Dictionary Attack

A dictionary attack involves trying a list of words and phrases to recover a password. This method can be time-consuming, but it's effective if the password is a common word or phrase.

To use a dictionary attack:

1. Create a list of common words and phrases.
2. Use a password recovery tool or VBA code to try each word and phrase.

Method 5: Using a Brute-Force Attack

A brute-force attack involves trying all possible combinations of characters to recover a password. This method can be time-consuming and may take several hours or days to complete.

To use a brute-force attack:

1. Use a password recovery tool or VBA code to try all possible combinations of characters.

Gallery of Excel Password Recovery

Excel Password Recovery Methods

Conclusion

Losing access to an Excel file can be frustrating, but there are several methods to recover an Excel password. From using Excel's built-in password recovery tool to third-party software and brute-force attacks, there's a method to suit every need. Remember to always use these methods responsibly and ensure you have the right to access the protected data. By following these methods, you can recover your Excel password and regain access to your important data.

We hope this article has been informative and helpful. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to ask. Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and don't forget to share this article with your friends and colleagues who may be struggling with Excel password recovery.