Excel protection.

**Andy-SRIXP** · 08-11-2009, 06:29 AM

Hi All,

Could someone help with a little issue I have with an Excel workbook. I have a workbook that I have created and I am going to distribute it to the network soon. I have a list of drop down menu boxes and I want the user to be able to select these cells only, not any other cells on the workbook. I have protected the workbook from change and given the exceptions so that they can change the drop down cells but I would like to only be able to selct these drop downs.

Help much appreciated.

**Palmetto** · 08-11-2009, 07:43 AM

By default, all cells on a worksheet have their "locked property" set to locked. Unless and until you change this property to "unlocked" users cannot select any cells when protection is applied.

Sounds like you have already unlocked the cells with the drop downs and there is nothing more to do other than to insure all other cells you want protected do, in fact, have their locked property turned on.

If I've not understood correctly, please clarify your need.

**Andy-SRIXP** · 08-11-2009, 09:47 AM

I have attached a different sheet but with the same principles, as the original has too much data. I am looking to make it so that if the user were to press the tab button on the key board the curser would only go to the cells that have the drop down menus.

**Palmetto** · 08-11-2009, 09:58 AM

Seems you haven't read my reply or tried the suggestions.
Unlock the cells you want to allow users to change and make sure the rest are locked and apply sheet protection.

When users use the TAB key they will cycle between the unlocked cells. However, in your version of Excel (2003) a user may still use the mouse to select a locked cell, but they will not be able to change it. Excel 2007 prevent users from even selecting locked cells (if you specify the option during protection).