Excel 2016 & 2013: How to Lock or Unlock Cells

Are you unable to modify cells because they are locked? Here’s how to lock or unlock cells in Microsoft Excel 2016 and 2013.

1. Select the cells you wish to modify.
2. Choose the “Home” tab.
3. In the “Cells” area, select “Format” > “Format Cells“.
   
4. Select the “Protection” tab.
   
5. Uncheck the box for “Locked” to unlock the cells. Check the box to lock them. Select “OK“. As the dialog box says, locking cells or hiding formulas has no effect until you protect the worksheet. You can do so under the “Review” tab by selecting “Protect Sheet“.