Macros being blocked in Excel even though file is located in trusted site

erniearagon 

I understand your frustration with these recurring issues in Microsoft Office applications. Addressing the problems with macro blocking and file management can indeed be time-consuming. Here's a more detailed response to your concerns:

Macro Blocking Issue:

1. Check Macro Settings:
• Go to File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > Macro Settings.
• Ensure the setting is not on "Disable all macros without notification".
• Consider using "Enable all macros" temporarily for testing purposes.
2. Verify Trusted Locations:
• Go to File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > Trusted Locations.
• Ensure the network share location is listed and enabled.
• Check "Allow trusted locations on my network" if applicable.
3. Clear Trusted Locations Cache:
• Remove all trusted locations from the list.
• Close and reopen Excel.
• Re-add the trusted locations.
4. Check Group Policy and Registry Settings:
• Look for any group policies or registry settings that might override your Trust Center settings.
• This can be particularly relevant in a corporate environment with centralized IT policies.
5. Antivirus and Security Software:
• Temporarily disable any antivirus or security software to see if it’s blocking macros.
• Add Excel to the list of trusted applications in your antivirus settings.
6. Office and Windows Updates:
• Ensure both Office and Windows are fully updated as recent updates may fix known issues.
7. File Format and Location:
• Ensure the file is saved with a macro-enabled format (.xlsm, .xlsb).
• Confirm the file is stored in a trusted network location or trusted site.

Addressing Excel's "Can't Open a File with the Same Name Twice" Bug:

This is a known issue where Excel struggles with opening files with the same name, even if they are in different folders. Here are a few workarounds:

1. Rename Files:
• Before opening, rename one of the files to avoid name conflicts.
2. Use Different Excel Instances:
• Open each file in a separate instance of Excel by launching Excel first and then opening the file.
3. File Path Length:
• Ensure the total file path length is not too long, as Excel has limits on path lengths.

Feedback to Microsoft:

Microsoft has feedback channels where users can report issues and suggest improvements:

• Microsoft Feedback Hub: Built into Windows 10, it allows users to report bugs and provide feedback directly to Microsoft.
• Office Insider Program: Join the program to report issues and get early access to fixes and new features.
• UserVoice: Microsoft used to use UserVoice for collecting feedback, though they may have shifted to other platforms like Tech Community forums.

Focus on Fixes:

It's understandable that you prefer Microsoft to fix existing issues before releasing new features. Here are a few ways to make your voice heard:

• Engage with Microsoft Support: Open support tickets for recurring issues.
• Participate in Forums: Join Microsoft Tech Community forums to discuss issues with peers and Microsoft representatives.
• Feedback During Updates: When updates are released, use the feedback options to highlight persistent issues.

Summary:

Dealing with these bugs can indeed be time-consuming, but thorough troubleshooting combined with consistent feedback to Microsoft can help mitigate these issues. By following the steps outlined, you can address the immediate problems and contribute to long-term improvements in Microsoft Office applications.