enable macros in excel

Hi @Ryan-N

I have tried all of these solutions and am still getting the following message:

I am using Excel for Windows running on Windows 11. Any other ideas or recommendations?

Hi @Andy Manington,

Thank you for reaching out to us. Below are detailed instructions to help you resolve the issue: “Microsoft has blocked macros from running because the source of this file is untrusted.”

Microsoft Excel 365 blocks macros in files downloaded from the internet or received via email for security reasons. These files are tagged with a “Mark of the Web (MOTW)” indicating they come from an untrusted source.

Method 1: Unblock the File via Properties

1. Close the Excel file if it’s currently open.
2. Right-click the file > select Properties.
3. In the General tab, look for a message like: “This file came from another computer and might be blocked…” If you see it, check the box “Unblock”.
4. Click Apply > OK.
5. Reopen the file in Excel. The macro should now run (as long as macro settings are not set to fully disable macros).

 Only unblock files from sources you trust.

Method 2: Move the File to a Trusted Location

1. Open Excel > File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings…
2. Select Trusted Locations > click Add new location…
3. Choose a folder you want to designate as trusted.
4. (Optional) Check “Subfolders of this location are also trusted” if needed.
5. Click OK to save.

Move or save the macro-enabled file into this folder. Excel will no longer block macros from this location.

Method 3: Adjust Macro Security Settings (Use with Caution)

1. Go to File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings… > Macro Settings
2. Choose one of the following:
   • Disable all macros with notification (Recommended)
     • Enable all macros (Not recommended – use only in secure environments)

If you enable all macros temporarily, remember to switch back to a safer setting afterward.

 Additional Tips

• If the “Unblock” checkbox doesn’t appear, the file may not be tagged or your system may restrict this option.
• Digitally signed macros from trusted publishers can be allowed automatically.
• Files from network drives or SharePoint may also be blocked depending on how they are accessed.
• Keep your Office 365 updated to benefit from the latest security improvements.
• This behavior is specific to Office on Windows. On Mac, you’ll see a simpler “Enable Content” prompt.

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