XL97: Files Open Slowly Across Network (242966)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Excel 97 for Windows, when used with:
    • the operating system: Microsoft Windows 98
    • the operating system: Microsoft Windows 95
This article was previously published under Q242966

SYMPTOMS

When you open a workbook in Microsoft Excel, the file may open much more slowly than it did in an earlier version of Excel. Additionally, although you may have several workbooks that are roughly the same size, some may open much more slowly than others.

CAUSE

This problem occurs when you open a workbook in Excel under the following conditions:
  • You open the file over a local or wide area network (LAN/WAN).

    -and-
  • The workbook contains macros.

    -and-
  • You have set macro security to a high or medium level.

WORKAROUND

To improve performance when opening a file across a network, set your macro security level to low.

WARNING: By setting the macro security level to low, you are turning off macro virus protection, so that you are no longer protected from potentially unsafe macros. Use this setting only if you have virus-scanning software installed, or if you are sure all documents you open are safe.

To turn off macro virus protection, follow these steps:
  1. On the Tools menu, click Options.
  2. In the Options dialog box, click the General tab. Click to clear the Macro virus protection check box. Click OK.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:5/13/2003
Keywords:kbnetwork kbprb KB242966
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