Thread: Preparing A Spreadsheet For Public Use

I have a spreadsheet with hidden cells containing data that VBA code references to compute data the user inputs. I plan on releasing this spreadsheet for use by the public and I'd like to know the best way to go about preparing it for public use. The hidden data cells as well the code needs to be protected from tampering if at all possible. The best I know right now is to password protect the cells and code but I know there are ways around it. I'm using excel 2007. If anyone would like to take a look at the spreadsheet I can email it to you on request. Is there a method or procedure I can utilize that is best suited for this situation? I can do a complete re-work if it is necessary.

Thank you,

Brian

Hello Brian,

Welcome to the Forum!

The most secure way is to compile the worksheet into a executable file using third party software. Here is a link you may want to investigate. The company offers a 30 day free trial.
DoneEx XCell Compiler

Here are some key features of "DoneEx XCell Compiler":

· Compile XLS to EXE
· Securely hide formulas by converting them into binary format
· Protect excel application from reverse engineering and analyzing.
· Create registration/license based application.
· Hardware locking! Lock your excel application to target computer.
· Excel application copy protection, illegal copying from one computer to another.
· Setup limit of work period for your compiled EXE file
· Save/load changed data
· Apply your own image as a splash screen
· Reflect your application name, version and copyright
· Load data with different background and font color
· Distribute your xla(s) inside compiled EXE
· Add your own end user license aggrement information.
· Simple and effective protection procedure, no need for additional programming.