Excel's New Window function doesn't work when using IRM (restrict access)

Question

Hi,

** I have tried to upload screenshots but the uploads fail **

I have an Excel file that is used as a pricing template and we have used the in-built IRM function to restrict access to people within our organisation but we have noticed that some functions don't work for people with Change access.

The current issue I'm trying to find a solution for is the New Window function. As a user with Full Control access, the New Window button in the View menu works for me, however the button is greyed out for users with Change access.

I have tried adding a macro-enabled button to open and close additional windows as a workaround solution. This macro works for me, however for other users it crashes at an "ActiveWindow.NewWindow" command and shows a Runtime error 1004: "NewWindow method of Window class failed"

Some other info:

• We use Windows 365
• Everyone within the organisation has "Change" access to the file
• The "Access content programmatically' setting is on within the IRM permissions

Is there a way to allow the New Window function to work for users with Change access?

Thanks.

Answer 1

You should be able to get Change access to this version of the file:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/r6aidvfjlpcavs9w7w2b2/New-Window-test-file_Lu-Snow.xlsm?rlkey=2hu2hanr69g1p62rzbtu3fprc&st=fnqmpudc&dl=0

Answer 2

I cannot open your file.

Yes, the IRM settings prevent anyone from opening the file unless they have an email address from my organisation but there should be a button to request access? This would send me an email to give you access to the file

Answer 3

I cannot open your file.

I found a similar issue for your reference. It could be bug.

Excel 2016 - "New window" not working/crashes Excel - Microsoft Community

I'd suggest you create a support ticket to Microsoft.

Please contact your admin/IT department create a support ticket via Microsoft 365 Admin Center> Support> New service request. Support team there will have the correct channel and resources to help you investigate more and find what exactly the reason has caused this situation.

Get support - Microsoft 365 admin | Microsoft Learn

About how to find the admin in your organization, you can refer to How do I find my Office 365 admin

Answer 4

I've created a blank file with the IRM settings from my template file, and added 2 versions of the macro that I've tested: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/fcgv4hvgvnm8hldvifq7m/New-Window-test-file.xlsm?rlkey=5j4cdagtau5rd6k5shxofbuyo&st=ocz4375b&dl=0

Hopefully the screenshots work this time:

The New Window button works for me:

But is greyed out for other users:

The IRM settings allow "Change" access to everyone within the organisation:

The macro-enabled buttons work for me, but not for other users:

I've tested a couple of different versions of the macro and the code fails with the command to open a new window:

Thank you for your help.

Answer 5

Could you upload screenshot again?

I would like to help you check the issue. Without a sample file, it is hard for me to share any suggestion on this. Can you upload it to OneDrive or any other cloud drive for investigation and then post the link here.

*Please make sure you have removed any sensitive or private information in the sample file before uploading.

Why a sample file is important for troubleshooting. How to do it. - Microsoft Community