Encrypt a Microsoft Excel Workbook

If you have a MS Excel Workbook that contains sensitive information, you can password protect the workbook so that it can be safely transmitted via email or stored in a network file share. Be careful to not lose or forget the password as the workbook cannot be opened without it.

Step-by-step guide

To encrypt and password protect your workbook, follow these steps in Microsoft Excel

1. Open the doc you want to protect.

2. Choose File > Info > Protect Workbook.

3. Select Encrypt with Password.

   

4. The Encrypt Document dialog box appears; type your password into the text box and repeat when prompted.

5. Save your document - it is now encrypted and password-protected.

   
   

If you're sending the protected file to someone via email, be sure to provide the password to the recipient through a means that is not email such as a phone call or text message.