Cannot modify cell style, getting protected sheet error but sheet is not protected

Question

I have created a multi-sheet workbook and am now creating and assigning cell styles.

When I want to modify a cell style (Home > Cell Styles > (right click) Modify) I can't complete the operation. I am getting the error message

Your changes cannot be made because this is a protected sheet.To remove protection, on the Tools menu, point to Protection, and then click Unprotect Sheet. You may be prompted for a password (screenshot below).

No sheets in my workbook are protected. (Various sheets were at one time protected, but all are unprotected now as I am editing the template.) I am not sharing the file with anyone else and I am the sole author. I get the same error message whether I save the workbook as a template or as an Excel file.

Would appreciate help on how to resolve this. Thanks!

Answer 1

Hello Stephen McElroy

Thank you for posting in Microsoft Community.

I understand that you have an issue editing or accessing a protected Excel file wherein you encountered an error message. Let’s work together in finding the best resolution to this issue.

For me to better understand the issue, I’d like to ask a few questions:

• What is the version of your Excel app? About Office: What version of Office am I using? - Microsoft Support
• Is the issue happened only to a specific file or multiple file?
• Is the file saved in OneDrive? Have you tried to access the file from there.

Based on the issue you are experiencing, it is possible that the workbook may have been protected at some point, and the protection was not removed properly.

To resolve this issue, please try the following steps:

• Click on the Review tab in the ribbon.
• Click on the Protect Workbook button.
• If the Protect Structure and Windows option is checked, uncheck it.
• Click OK to save the changes.

After completing these steps, try modifying the cell style again and see if the issue persists.

We look forward to your next response.

Regards,

Jason Guer

Microsoft Community Moderator

Answer 2

Hi Jason,

Thanks for your reply. To your questions:

• I am using Excel 16.76 (230801101)
• I switched to another file and was able to modify styles, both custom and pre-defined. So it appears to be file-based
• It is not saved on OneDrive, it is on the hard disk of my Mac

When I follow the steps above, I find that Protect structure is indeed checked, but when I uncheck it the OK button becomes disabled and I am unable to complete the action.

If I check Protect structure again to activate it, the OK button is enabled again.

Answer 3

Hi Jason,

I found the issue! I had a hidden sheet that was protected. One I unhid and unprotected it I was able to modify my styles. Thanks!

Steve

Answer 4

Hello Stephen McElroy

Good Day!

We are glad to know that everything is working now.

Please do not hesitate to ask the community anytime just in case you have any questions in the future.

Regards,

Jason Guer

Microsoft Community Moderator