Just downloaded an Excel app and it’s not working properly? Don’t worry — most issues come from simple security blocks. In this quick guide, you'll learn how to:
- Enable macros (so buttons and automation work)
- Unblock the file (if it was downloaded from the internet)
- Make sure your Excel trusts the file
Step 1: Unblock the File (Windows Only)
Right-click the Excel file → Select Properties → At the bottom, tick "Unblock" if visible → Click Apply.
Step 2: Enable Macros in Excel
When you open the file, you’ll usually see a yellow warning bar at the top. Click “Enable Content” to allow the macros to run.
If you don’t see the bar, or nothing happens:
- Go to: File → Options → Trust Center → Trust Center Settings
- Navigate to Macro Settings and choose: “Disable all macros with notification”
- Then re-open the file and enable macros when prompted.
Step 3: Recommended – Add the Folder to Trusted Locations
This prevents future warnings for your Excel tools:
- Go to: File → Options → Trust Center → Trusted Locations
- Click Add new location and select the folder where your Excel tools are stored
Bonus: Office Protect View Settings
Sometimes, Office disables content via Protected View. You can adjust this in:
- Trust Center → Protected View
- Uncheck the options related to internet files if you trust the source
“Macros are the engine behind Excel automation. Without them, your tool can’t save, reset, calculate or guide the user.”