VBA & Macro Problems

How to Open an XLSM File with Signed Macros in Excel

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to resolve an Excel security block to open a digitally signed XLSM file that is trusted on another computer but restricted on the current device.

Product: Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to open and run a macro-enabled workbook (XLSM) that relies on a digital signature.
Observed behavior: Excel blocks the macros from running because the digital certificate and publisher are not recognized as trusted on the affected device.

Before you start

Verify that the XLSM file is from a legitimate source and that you trust the publisher, as enabling macros from unknown origins can expose your computer to malicious software.

Solution 1Recommended

Add the Certificate to the Trusted Publishers Store

Manually install the digital certificate to your computer's Trusted Publishers list to bypass the security block for this specific file.

If an XLSM file functions properly on one computer but is blocked on another, the digital certificate used to sign the VBA macros is likely missing from the affected device's Trusted Publishers store.

Access the Security Warning

Open the blocked XLSM file in Excel. When the yellow Security Warning message bar appears at the top, click on 'Enable Content' > 'Advanced Options'.

View Signature Details

In the Microsoft Office Security Options dialog box, locate the digital signature details and click on 'Show Signature Details'.

Install the Certificate

Select 'View Certificate', then click the 'Install Certificate' button to launch the Certificate Import Wizard.

Select the Trusted Publishers Store

Follow the wizard prompts. When asked where to place the certificate, choose 'Place all certificates in the following store', browse for 'Trusted Publishers', and complete the import.

Administrative Restrictions: If the 'Install Certificate' option is grayed out or the security settings cannot be changed, your IT department has likely implemented administrative restrictions. You must contact them to deploy the certificate to your machine.

Powerful Spreadsheet Tool

Open and Run XLSM Files with WPS Office

WPS Office Spreadsheet provides excellent support for VBA macros. You can easily open XLSM files, review code in the built-in VBA editor, and execute your scripts securely.

1. Install WPS Office with VBA Support: Download and install WPS Office, ensuring you select or download the VBA module if your specific version requires a separate add-in for macro support.
2. Open the XLSM File: Launch WPS Spreadsheet, click on 'Menu' in the top-left corner, select 'Open', and browse to your XLSM file.
3. Enable Macros: Upon opening the document, locate the security warning bar below the ribbon and click 'Enable Macros' to allow the scripts to run securely.
4. Access the VBA Editor: If you need to view or edit the signed macros, navigate to the 'Developer' tab and click on 'Visual Basic' to open the VBA editor.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel .xlsm and .xlsb macro-enabled formatsBuilt-in VBA environment for seamless script execution and debuggingStraightforward security prompts to safely manage macro executionLightweight application that opens large data files rapidly

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my XLSM file work on one computer but not another?

This discrepancy occurs because the digital certificate used to sign the macros is installed in the Trusted Publishers store on the first computer, but it is missing on the second device.

Is it safe to bypass the security block and enable macros?

It is only safe if you definitively trust the source of the file and the publisher's digital signature. Never enable macros from unknown, unexpected, or suspicious sources.

Can I view the spreadsheet data without enabling macros?

Yes, you can open XLSM files and choose to leave macros disabled. You will still be able to view and edit standard cells, but any automated scripts or interactive buttons will not function.

What if my company blocks macro execution completely?

Many organizations use Group Policy to block all macros originating from the internet or unverified publishers. If this is the case, you must request your IT department to whitelist the specific publisher's certificate.

Excel & Data Problems