Excel: Macro is Blocked

Excel will block macros when the file is not listed as a trusted source. This commonly affects template files provided by UW System, such as the "Actuals Journal Upload Template". This article presents each step needed to get the file listed as a trusted source.

Problem

Excel will block macros when the file is not listed as a trusted source. This usually occurs when the file is not located on the local machine, like a network drive. This commonly affects template files provided by UW System, such as the "Actuals Journal Upload Template".

Error presented on-screen when loading the file:

Error presented when attempting to run a macro:

Solution

Please note that these steps are designed for Windows. Mac users may be able to follow these steps except for unblocking the file.

Regardless of where the file is stored, it needs to be unblocked first.

1. Right-click the file in File Explorer.
2. Click Properties.
3. Click the check box to the right of Unblock, which is located at the bottom of the last section in the body of the pop-up window that appeared after completing the previous step.
4. Click Apply.
5. Click Ok.

If the file is stored on the local machine, then the following steps are not necessary as the file should be working now.

If the file is stored off of the local machine, like a network drive, then the trust center in Excel needs to be configured with the location of where the file is stored. The following steps will need to be completed:

1. Click File.

2. Click Options, which is located at the bottom of the left-hand sidebar.

3. Click Trust Center, which is located at the bottom of the left-hand sidebar of the pop-up window that appeared after completing the previous step.

4. Click Trust Center Settings..., which is located on the right-hand side of the second section in the body in the pop-up.

5. Click Trusted Locations, which is the second top-most item on the left-hand sidebar of the pop-up window that appeared after completing the previous step.

6. Make sure the check box is enabled (filled in and has a check icon) next to Allow Trusted Locations on my network (not recommended).

7. Click Add new location..., located near the bottom right-hand side of the body of the pop-up window that was interacted with from the previous step.

8. Click Browse..., located on the right-hand side under the first input box of the pop-up window that appeared after completing the previous step.

9. A file explorer window will appear. Navigate to the parent folder of the file, or navigate to the root level of your department folder or even the root level of the network drive. The most secure method is only selecting the parent folder of the item, but please note that if the file is moved out of that folder then it will not work again. Click Ok. The file explorer window will close and the Path: input box will be filled in with the location chosen.
10. If selecting a folder higher than the parent folder of the file, please make sure the check box is enabled (check icon is present) next to Subfolders of this location are also trusted.

11. Click Ok until all pop-up windows are closed.

Need help?

If you have questions, please contact the ITS Help Desk at 608.342.1400 or helpdesk@uwplatt.edu.  You may also visit the Help Desk on the first floor of the Karrmann Library.