Easy Tech TutsHow to Enable Macros in Microsoft Excel 365 Easily 2026
By Impran M N
A blocked macro alert can bring your automated spreadsheets to a halt right when you need them most. This guide covers the quick one-session bypass using the message bar, the more permanent Trust Center configuration, and setting up a trusted folder so vetted files run without repeated warnings.
01Use the quick session bypass
When you open a file, look for the yellow security banner below the ribbon and click Enable Content.
02Open the Trust Center
Click the File tab, go to Options, and select Trust Center from the sidebar.
03Access Trust Center Settings
Click Trust Center Settings to open the detailed configuration window.
04Go to Macro Settings
Click Macro Settings in the left menu to see your available options.
05Choose the right setting
Select "Disable VBA macros with notification" for a balance of safety and convenience, or Enable all macros only in an isolated developer environment.
06Whitelist a trusted folder
Alternatively, designate a permanent trusted folder so files stored there run automatically without alerts.
Frequently asked questions
Which macro setting should most users choose?
"Disable VBA macros with notification" is generally the recommended balance, since it still lets you approve trusted files individually.
Is it risky to enable all macros globally?
Yes, enabling all macros removes a key safety layer and should really only be used in an isolated developer sandbox environment.
Why does a downloaded file still get blocked even after I changed settings?
Downloaded files can carry a "Mark of the Web" property that triggers extra warnings, which sometimes needs to be stripped separately.
Do I need to change settings every time I open a macro file?
Not if you whitelist a trusted folder, since files stored there will run without triggering the notification banner each time.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
