I have an Excel file that is password protected and it seems to be corrupted as it won't open. The password is definitely correct, but the system hangs and won't open the file. Any suggestions how to get into it? If I can't open the file it means re-inputting all the data since January this year - I know, I should have done backups more regularly :-[ :'(
Hello Jesse,
If the password is correct this does indeed sound strange. Are you being told the file has become corrupt? Usually a prompt is given with information.
And if it really has become corrupt, and your password isn't being accepted, your chances of accessing said data again are very slim - practically nil I'm afraid.
YP it doesn't say anything, just starts opening and then gets stuck at that point, no messages or anything. I tried typing in a duff password just to see, and it throws up a message saying incorrect password. I've had a few suggestions on things to try so I'll try those, otherwise it's a lot of catching up on work for me I'm afraid.
just a quick suggestion - run a scan disc for errors! or if you have a second pc, remove your problem harddrive and sit it to the other set as slave, and try and open it that way, can you open other programmes in excel or has the programme gone corrupt? if its not mad urgent go to http://www.vnunet.com/ and leave the question there, you will soon get a reply from the forum, just scroll down opening page and you will see forums on the left. VERY helpful.
Cheers Kev
Just a rather obvious point, Excel passwords are case sensitive, but I'm sure you already tried the different combinations.
Ken thanks, yes I know about the case sensitive thing, and am 100% sure the password I'm using is correct.
Kev, I do have a second pc, the one I'm having the problem with is a laptop, I wouldn't have a clue how to remove a hard drive and do what you suggest, I'm not sure I even understand what you are saying!
It's not excel that's corrupt because all my other excel files open without a problem. I've tried doing a system restore but it's not helped.
Thanks for all the suggestions, much appreciated :) I think I'll admit defeat and start with re-inutting the figures, I've got a usable backup dated January this year and all the paperwork.
Not sure if it would work or not but have you tried creating a copy of the file or simply trying to print the file without opening it first. Both will still result in the password being requested but by doing so for a different purpose you may avoid the problematic sub-routine.
Okay, update. Thank you all for your help and suggestions, much appreciated. I've managed to access the data by opening a new workbook and then following this advice:
Use External link formulas In another worksheet enter this formula into cell a1:
='C:\My Documents\[Corrupt File Name.xls]Sheet'1!A1
â€" changing it to match the corrupt file path, filename and sheet names. Copy this formula down and over â€" mirroring the range covered in the corrupt file. Cell values, but not formulas or VBA code, may be retrieved.
It's been time consuming but the data is appearing in the new workbook. I'm very happy again :D
A good tip Jessevieve. Thanks for letting us know. Iain