[Fixed!] Excel Files Open as Read Only from Network (8 Solutions)

Here are some of the most common reasons behind this error.

• Corrupted Excel Workbook
• Unsupported Add-ins
• Malware and Antivirus
• Encrypted File
• Issues with Excel
• Spreadsheet or File Settings

Solution 1 – Eliminate the Read-Only Attribute from Excel File Properties

Steps:

• Right-click on the MS Excel file in File Explorer and choose Properties.

• In the Attributes option, uncheck Read-only.
• Click on OK.

Read More: How to Remove Read Only from Excel

Solution 2 – Readjust Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, an antivirus system prevents Excel files from opening in read-only format. Keep your antivirus updated and make sure it doesn’t conflict with Excel. Excel may hang if an obsolete Antivirus tool interferes with it. You can also temporarily disable your anti-virus software to see whether that is the cause of your Excel hang. Whenever that solves the problem, contact your antivirus supplier and let them know there’s a problem.

Solution 3 – Remove the Protected View

Steps:

• Open File and go to Options.

• Select Trust Center and choose Trust Center Settings.

• Select Protected View and uncheck all options.

• Select File Block Settings and uncheck all options.
• Click on OK.

Read More: How to Make Excel Workbook Read Only with Password

Solution 4 – Repair MS Office

Steps:

• Press Win + R. Type in appwiz.cpl.
• Press Enter. You can also open Programs and Features in the Control Panel.

• Right-click on Microsoft 365 or Excel and select Change.

Solution 5 – Change the File Type

Steps:

• Open File and choose Save As.
• Select a different file type from the Save Workbooks.

Read More: [Fixed!] This Excel Workbook Was Opened in Read-Only Mode

Solution 6 – Uncheck Read-Only Recommended

Steps:

• Open File and choose Save As.
• When the Save As dialog box appears, select Tools.
• Select General Options.

• When the General Options dialog box appears, uncheck Read-only recommended.

Solution 7 – Check and Update Windows

Keep your operating system and apps updated.

Solution 8 – Recheck If OneDrive Storage Is Full

You may experience problems if your MS Excel Files are stored on OneDrive with insufficient storage space. Open Settings on your computer, go to OneDrive, and check the amount of available space. Empty the space on the drive if there is no available space or it is full. If the problem persists, try reinstalling the software.

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Related Articles

• How to Make an Excel File Read Only
• Make a Cell Read-Only in Excel
• [Solved]: All Excel Files Opening as Read Only

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