Creating A Read-Only File In Excel

Question

I recently was asked by a coworker how they can save and share a Read-Only Excel document. At the time I was more familiar with the method of protecting the documents cells and sheets as mentioned in this article, Lock or unlock specific areas of a protected worksheet (microsoft.com); also found an article for how to easily add password protection, Protect an Excel file (microsoft.com). I shared the first article with the coworker and almost immediately afterward found an easier answer.

To create a read only Excel file (Windows) -

• Create your file
• Click the Save icon above the menu
• Click 'More options' in the lower left of the window
• Click the storage location, here 'This PC' under Other Locations and then click 'More options' in the right side of the window below the filetype selector

• Then select 'Tools' at the bottom left next to 'Save' and choose 'General Options'

Here you are check the 'Read-Only recommended' box to save as read only, then enter the file name and click 'Save'

       [![](https://learn-attachment.microsoft.com/api/attachments/35836a7d-1826-4e03-8e72-441770c6fae0?platform=QnA

Answer 1

Dear Jeremy,

Thanks for sharing.

Sincerely,

George | Microsoft Community Moderator