How to password protect a Microsoft Office file 

With the level of cybersecurity issues nowadays it makes sense to password protect files such as word documents, PowerPoint presentations or Excel workbooks. Thankfully it’s easy to password-protect Microsoft office files to ensure they are kept secure.

When should you password-protect a document? 

• The document contains personal information about other people 
• It contains confidential or sensitive information
• If you want to limit who can open and print the document
• You want to prevent the document from being altered 
• To comply with company or industry regulations 

Remember, passcodes cannot be recovered if you forget them. Be sure to keep your chosen password safe or ensure it is something you will remember. 

Here is how you can password-protect Microsoft Office files.

How to password protect a Word document 

Using a Mac 

1. Select the Review tab > Protect > Protect Document 
2. Type in a password then re-enter it 
3. Save the document and make sure the password has been set

Using Windows 

1. Select File > Info > Protect Document > Encrypt With Password
2. Type in a password then re-enter it 
3. Save the document and make sure the password has been set

How to password protect a PowerPoint 

Using a Mac

1. Select File > Passwords > Password to open
2. In the New Password box type in a password and again in the Verify box
3. Click Set Password 

Using Windows 

1. Select File > Info > Protect Presentation>Encrypt with Password
2. Type in your chosen password and re-enter it 
3. Click Ok

More Like This: How to set a secure password

How to password protect an Excel Spreadsheet 

Using Windows

1. File > Info > Protect Workbook > Encrypt with Password
2. Type in a password and confirm it
3. Select Ok

Using a Mac

1. File > Passwords 
2. Type in a password and confirm it
3. Select Ok

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