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

[TAMBROSY]

I am experiencing an issue that I have seen several discussions about, however there does not appear to be an answer so I wanted to see if anyone has found an answer for this.

I have a user that is getting the following message in excel when opening a file on a network share:

Microsoft has blocked macros from running because the source of this file is untrusted.  

I have confirmed that the file location is in the Trusted Center and in addition, this issue just started happening recently with no changes that I am aware of.  I have also placed the server IP and Server name of the server in the Trusted sites under Internet Options, but this did not change the issue.

Here is some info about the system:

Windows 10 Pro 10.0.19045 Build 19045

Excel for Microsoft 365 MSO (Version 2402 Build 16.0.17328.20124) 64-bit

[#2]

@TAMBROSY 

If macros are being blocked in Excel even though the file is located in a trusted site and you've confirmed the file location is in the Trusted Center, there are a few potential reasons for this behavior. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can try:

1. Check Macro Settings: Verify that macro settings in Excel are configured to allow macros. To do this, go to File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > Macro Settings. Ensure that the setting is not set to "Disable all macros without notification". You can choose "Enable all macros" or "Disable all macros with notification" depending on your security preferences.
2. Check File Format: Ensure that the file extension is one of the allowed macro-enabled formats, such as .xlsm (for Excel macro-enabled workbook). If the file extension is not recognized as a macro-enabled format, Excel may block macros from running.
3. Verify Trust Center Settings: Double-check the Trusted Locations settings in the Trust Center to ensure that the network share location is listed correctly and enabled. Also, ensure that the "Allow trusted locations on my network" option is checked.
4. Clear Trusted Locations Cache: Sometimes, Excel may cache the trusted locations list. Try clearing the Trusted Locations cache by removing all trusted locations and then re-adding them.
5. Group Policy or Registry Settings: Check if there are any Group Policy settings or registry entries that might be overriding the Trusted Locations settings or macro settings in Excel. Ensure that there are no policies restricting macro execution.
6. Test on a Different Computer: If possible, try opening the file on a different computer to see if the issue persists. This can help determine if the problem is specific to the user's computer or if it's a broader issue.
7. Update Office: Ensure that Office and Windows 10 are fully up to date. Sometimes, issues with macro security can be resolved by installing the latest updates and patches.
8. Antivirus or Security Software: Check if any antivirus or security software on the user's computer is blocking macro execution. Temporarily disable the antivirus software (if safe to do so) and see if the issue persists.

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it may be necessary to further investigate the specific circumstances of the problem. The text was created with the help of AI.

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[#3]

@NikolinoDE 

"Sometimes, Excel may cache the trusted locations list. "

That sounds like something Microsoft should fix.  Same with Word and the others.  Also, why hasn't MS fixed Excel's "Can't open a file with the same name twice" bug?  I could go on and on with the time I waste troubleshooting MS bugs.  How about this?  No more new software products.  Just work on fixing your existing ones.

[#4]

@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.