Common questions about Protect Worksheet usually focus on passwords, allowed actions, and how locked cells work together with protection; this FAQ includes 3 frequent questions and a glossary.
FAQ
What should I do if I forget the worksheet protection password?
- Worksheet protection uses the password to confirm whether protection can be removed, so first check whether the password was saved elsewhere.
- If the password has been forgotten, the current worksheet protection cannot be removed directly with the original password.
- For future use, store the password in a safe place to avoid interrupting later editing.
Can I still sort and filter after protecting a worksheet?
- Yes, but the related allowed actions need to be selected before protection is enabled.
- In the Protect Worksheet settings window, confirm that sorting or filtering options are selected.
- After protection is applied, test the target range to make sure those actions still work.
What is the difference between Protect Worksheet and locked cells?
- Locked cells mark which areas should be restricted from editing.
- Protect Worksheet turns those restrictions on for the current worksheet.
- When used together, locked or hidden settings take effect in the worksheet.
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Protect Worksheet | A feature that applies editing restrictions to the current worksheet and can use a password to control removal of protection. |
| Locked cells | A setting that marks whether cells should be restricted from editing when the worksheet is protected. |
| Unprotect Worksheet | The action of removing worksheet protection after the correct password is entered. |