VBA project password

Question

Hello

By VBA I first open Workbook1 and then Workbook 2.

From workbook1 I need VBA code to unprotect the VBA project from workbook2.

I know the password for the workbook 2 project.

How do I do it? Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Hi

There is no supported VBA method such as VBProject.Unprotect "password". A protected VBA project must be unlocked through the VBA editor. Knowing the password does not allow another workbook to unlock it through the standard VBA object model.

As a workaround, you can try open Workbook2, then unlock it manually:

1. Press Alt+F11.
2. In Project Explorer, expand Workbook2’s project.
3. Enter its password when prompted.
4. Run the macro in Workbook1 that accesses Workbook2’s VBproject

For example, after it has been unlocked:

Sub WorkWithWorkbook2Project()
 
	Dim wb2 As Workbook
	Dim vbProject As Object

	Set wb2 = Workbooks("Workbook2.xlsm")
 	Set vbProject = wb2.VBProject

	Debug.Print vbProject.Name

End Sub

To use VBProject, you need to enable:

• Open File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings
• Go to Macro Settings > Select Trust access to the VBA project object model

If using early binding, also select:

• VBE > Tools > References > Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications Extensibility 5.3

Once the project is unlocked, VBA code in Workbook1 can access or modify Workbook2’s VBA components. If the requirement is only to run a public macro stored in Workbook2, unlocking the VBA project is not necessary. Workbook1 can call the macro using Application.Run.

For more information, please refer to the following link:

• 2.3.1.16 ProjectPassword
• Set project properties
• VBA - How can I password protect moldules using code?
• VBA Project Password

This link is shared by community members for your convenience. It points to a third-party site that is not managed or verified by Microsoft. I can’t guarantee the quality, safety, or suitability of any content or software found there. Please review carefully and make sure you understand any potential risks before using it. 

I hope this points you in the right direction and feel free to share the validation testing results if you need further assistance.

Thank you for your understanding, and I wish you a wonderful day ahead. 

Best regards, 

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