Excel Spreadsheet Encryption

Question

Good Morning-----

We have a vendor that provided our organization with an encryption key to encrypt the spreadsheets we provided them. All I see in Excel and Google is how to use Protect Workbook. Is it possible to use a specific encryption key to encrypt a spreadsheet in Excel?

Thank you, Janet

Answer 1

Hello Janet,

Thank you for posting to this community.

Per the description you want to encrypt an Excel file with the provided encryption key.

I’m afraid that the only way how you can encrypt a file within Excel application is add a password:

• Select File > Info.
• Select the Protect Workbookbox and choose Encrypt with Password.
• Enter a password in the Passwordbox, and then select OK.
• Confirm the password in the Reenter Passwordbox, and then select OK.

You may also check this article Protection and security in Excel (microsoft.com)

Another way how to encrypt a file is within File Explorer:

• Right-click (or press and hold) a file or folder and select Properties.
• Select the Advanced button and select the Encrypt contents to secure data check box.
• Select OK to close the Advanced Attributes window, select Apply, and then select OK.
• Advanced Attributes window select Details and add a certificate.

If my understanding is not matching with your situation, please post back to us and point that.

Best regards,

Igor

Answer 2

Hello, Janet

We didn't receive your reply. Do you have other concerns about this issue? If you need further support, just reply and we will proceed to support.

Best regards

Igor