How to Open A Password Protected Excel without Password?

[Kranyak]

I have an Excel file encrypted with a password, I can't open and view the contents inside, the last employee has left and cannot be contacted, only he knows the password. So, is there any other way to recover or crack Excel password?

Updated: Thank you all for your replies and help. I tried several password recovery software and finally iSeepassword Dr.Excel helped me recover it. It took 3 hours to recover the password.  Even though it took a long time, but I think it was worth it just to be able to recover my password.

[#2]

@Kranyak 

Here two links, maybe you will find some suggestions/opportunities here :).

1 Link:Password Options

2 Link:How to unprotect the excel sheet if forgot the password

Hope I was able to help you with this links.

NikolinoDE

I know I don't know anything (Socrates)

[#3]

Are you familiar with command line utility? I know there are a couple of free apps out there for recovering Excel password but you have to get involved with pure text command. This would be extremely hard for newbies.

[#4]

@Alex_Wong1040 

Thank you for your answer, sorry, I'm not familiar with the command line, I googled some blogs and they also recommend using the command line to crack Excel passwords, I don't dare to use it, and I'm afraid of damaging my files and permanently losing my important data.

so, is there a better way to open a password protected Excel without taking the risk of damaging the file?

[#5 · Accepted solution]

@Kranyak This is normal. Most of users are not comfortable with text commands. GUI software are more welcomed. Fortunately, there are dozens of excel password recovery software/service you could find from Google. I am sure there is a right one for you.

p.s I just got a hint from my wife that she did recover the lost password form old excel file using iSeePassword Dr.Excel tool when I am writing this reply.  She has spent several days to find the one that is working as claimed.  It turned out most of the suggestions made by Google are garbage. 

Here is the step-by-step guide for your reference: 

https://www.iseepassword.com/online-help/excel-password-recovery.html

Let me know if you need suggestions about this. 

[#6]

@NikolinoDE 

Hi I have a file which was created by an ex-employee and I do not have the password. Would you be abke to help me?
Thanks.