XL2002: Error Message When You Attempt to Edit Multiple Cells in a Protected Worksheet with a Single Password (277615)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Excel 2002
This article was previously published under Q277615

SYMPTOMS

When you attempt to edit cells in a Microsoft Excel workbook, you may receive the following error message:
Some of the cells you are trying to change are password protected, but no one password will allow access to all of the cells. Click OK, and then try editing one cell at a time.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur if all of the following conditions are true:
  • The worksheet is protected with a password.

    -and-
  • You attempt to simultaneously edit multiple cells.

    -and-
  • The multiple cells are protected with a single password.
The error message is misleading because one password actually will allow access to all of the cells. However, you need to type the password for at least one of the cells before you can perform a multiple-cell edit. Refer to the "More Information" section to see an example of this behavior.

WORKAROUND

To work around this issue, follow these steps:
  1. Double-click any one of the cells in the range of cells that you want to edit.
  2. When Excel prompts you for the password, type your password, and then click OK.
  3. Proceed to perform an operation that involves the editing of multiple password-protected cells.

    You do not receive the error message, and your operation should be completed successfully.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed that this is a problem in the Microsoft products that are listed at the beginning of this article.

MORE INFORMATION

Example of the Problem

  1. In Excel 2002, type any text into cells A1:A2.
  2. Select cell B1.
  3. On the Tools menu, point to Protection, and then click Allow Users to Edit Ranges.
  4. Click New, and then under Refers to cells, type =B$1$.
  5. Under Range password, type test. Click OK, confirm the password, and then click OK again.
  6. Click New, and then under Refers to cells, type =B$2$.
  7. Under Range password, type test. Click OK, confirm the password, and then click OK again.
  8. Click Protect Sheet, and then click OK.
  9. Select cells A1:A2.
  10. On the Edit menu, click Copy.
  11. Select B1.
  12. On the Edit menu, click Paste. Note that you receive the error message described in the "Symptoms" section.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:4/21/2003
Keywords:kbbug kberrmsg kbpending KB277615
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