If the "Read-only recommended" box isn't checked when you set up the workbook with a password to open the file, Excel won't prompt with a message. Instead, the workbook simply opens to the last ...

Now, when you go to open the file again, read-only is disabled. This method works in all versions of Microsoft Excel from 2003 through 2016 for all worksheets of this type.

If you wish to edit or make changes to the Excel file, you can disable or remove Read-only attribute by following any one of these methods.

If you have sensitive data you'd like to keep from prying eyes in a Microsoft Excel file, the easiest way to protect it is with Excel's built-in password tools.

Sending Excel files containing crucial financial and business data has risks. To add a layer of protection, you should learn to password protect an Excel file.