If you have a file that is sensitive to changes, you can force Microsoft Excel 2019, 2016, or 365 to prompt the user to open as Read Only whenever they attempt to open the file. Here’s how to enable this setting.
- In Excel, select “File” and click Save As.
- Excel 2019 users, select “Browse“. Excel 2016 users select “More options…“.
- Choose “Tools” > “General Options” at the bottom of the window.
- Select the check-box for “Read-only recommended“, then select “OK“.
- Select “Save“.
- If prompted, choose “Yes” to update the file with the read-only setting.
That’s it! Anybody who opens the file in Excel will now be prompted to choose “Open as Read-Only“.
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Jennifer Woods says
Great explanation; The prompt box states that the author would like you to open as ready only, but it still allows the ‘reader’ to “opt-in” and edit.
Markus says
Thank you for this straightforward explanation.
John C. says
Works the same for Excel 2013
Issac says
If I want to remove the pop up message how do I go about removing it,
Tom Bates says
Nice. Piece of cake once you know where to find it. :-)
Jon says
THANK YOU for this simple explanation! It’s amazing how difficult it was to find this simple answer anywhere else. VERY helpful, thanks again!