Programmatically changing Excel file from SharePoint from read only to readwrite

Question

Prior to my corp upgrading to Office 365 I had an Excel VBA macro that successfully would open and modify an Excel file off a SharePoint server.
Since the upgrade this file is flagged read only when opened.
I wish to be able to update the file with zero user interaction.
I've attempted various solutions offered on the web to no avail.
I've considered utilizing the API FindWindow function to drill down to the edit button and programmatically push it.
Unfortunately SharePoint seems to append the Window caption with the last modified date of the file.

1. Is there an easier way to address my issue.
2. If using the API call is the necessary course, how can I identify the window I'm seeking if the caption is changing.

THANKS for any recommendations

Answer 1

Hi @Brenchley, David Scott ，

Please try to use the filepath like the below: https://tenant.sharepoint.com/sites/test/Shared%20Documents/file.xlsx. Read this post for details: https://stackoverflow.com/questions/51029214/opening-excel-file-from-sharepoint-as-read-write

Besides, you could try to use ActiveWorkbook.LockServerFile in your code to enable edit: https://stackoverflow.com/questions/45163549/excel-2016-sharepoint-file-still-opens-as-readonly/45171431#45171431

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Answer 2

Hi @Brenchley, David Scott ，

In SharePoint library settings -> Advanced settings, You could try to change to Open Documents in Client Applications by Default.