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chrishall166's avatar
chrishall166
Brass Contributor
Oct 21, 2025
Solved

Lost ability to create macros

Just tried to create a macro and have found that all the buttons on the macro console are greyed out. I've been editing macros in this file earlier but now all have disappeared and I can't do anythi...
  • Kidd_Ip's avatar
    Oct 22, 2025

    Please try below potential causes and fixes for the greyed-out Macro Console:

    1. File format issue
    • Make sure your workbook is saved as Macro-Enabled Workbook (.xlsm).
    • If it’s saved as .xlsx, macros won’t be stored or editable.

    Fix:
    Go to File → Save As → Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (.xlsm).

     

    1. Workbook or worksheet protection
    • If the workbook or sheet is protected, macro editing may be disabled.

    Fix:
    Go to Review → Unprotect Sheet or Unprotect Workbook.

     

    1. Macros disabled by Group Policy
    • Even if Trust Center settings look correct, your system may be governed by a Group Policy that disables macros.

    Fix:

    • Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
    • Navigate to:
      User Configuration → Administrative Templates → Microsoft Excel → Excel Options → Security → Trust Center
    • Check if macro settings are enforced here. If so, contact IT to adjust.

     

    1. Corrupted workbook or Excel profile
    • If macros were working and suddenly disappeared, the workbook might be corrupted or your Excel profile may have cached errors.

    Fixes:

    • Try opening the file on another computer.
    • Create a new workbook and import the macros manually.
    • Repair Office:
      Control Panel → Programs → Microsoft 365 → Modify → Quick Repair.

     

    1. Add-ins or COM conflicts
    • Some add-ins can interfere with macro functionality.

    Fix:

    • Go to File → Options → Add-ins → Manage COM Add-ins → Go
    • Disable suspicious or unknown add-ins and restart Excel.

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