untrusted XLL add-ins

(Originally posted February 28, 2023 By ~ Gedion Alemayehu)

Hello, Insiders! I’m Gedion Alemayehu, a Product Manager on the Excel team. I’m excited to share with you a change we’re making to the default settings in Excel for Windows. The purpose of this change is to add a layer of security to your worksheets and protect you from potential attacks coming through XLL add-ins. XLL add-ins are a specific type of add-in that is used to distribute malware to unsuspecting victims.

Block untrusted XLL add-ons by default

Add-ins can add a lot of functionality to Microsoft 365, but they can also be used by malicious actors to spread malware. We are taking steps to protect users by blocking XLL add-ins.

With this update, you can no longer click a button to activate XLL add-ons from files obtained from the Internet. Now, a message will appear informing you of the risk you are taking and providing a link to more information about possible solutions.

memo: Changing this setting will only block XLL add-ons. Not all add-ons. For example, add-ons from the Store will not be affected.

How it works

1. Open an Excel file that contains XLL add-ins from untrusted sources.

   Microsoft Excel Security Notice

2. at Microsoft Excel Security Notice In the message box, review the add-on source and click Leave this add-on disabled button.

memo: Click here More information Click the link to learn more about managing XLL add-ons.

effectiveness

This feature is rolling out to Insiders running Version 2302 (Build 16130.20128) or later.

We usually release features over a period of time to make sure everything is working smoothly. This also applies to Insiders. Since we release slowly to a larger number of Insiders, we highlight features that you may not have. Sometimes we remove elements based on your feedback to make it even better. This is rare, but we also have the option to remove a feature from the product entirely, even if you, as an Insider, have had the opportunity to try it out.

feedback

We want to hear from you! Click here help > feedback To submit feedback on this feature, please send it to us in Excel.

Have an idea for how to make Excel better? Let us know. Excel Forum on Microsoft Feedback Submit your idea or vote on other ideas.

Learn about Microsoft 365 Insider Program And join us Microsoft 365 Insider Newsletter Get the latest Insider features straight to your inbox once a month!