Removing Protected View from Word
So, you want to get rid of that pesky Protected View in Microsoft Word? It’s that yellow bar that appears at the top of your document, warning you that the file might be dangerous. While it’s there for a reason—to protect you from potentially harmful files—sometimes, it’s just in the way. You can easily disable it, but be careful and make sure the files you open are from trusted sources. Read on to find out how to do it step-by-step.
How to Remove Protected View from Word
In this guide, you’ll learn how to disable Protected View in Microsoft Word. By the end, you’ll be able to open documents without that annoying yellow bar. But remember, always be cautious when opening files from unknown sources!
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word
First, open Microsoft Word. You can do this by clicking on the Word icon on your desktop or searching for it in your Start menu.
Once you have Word open, you will be ready to make changes to the settings that control Protected View.
Step 2: Go to the File Tab
Step 2: Click on the File tab in the top-left corner of the screen.
The File tab will take you to a new menu where you can access Word options and settings.
Step 3: Select Options
Step 3: In the new menu, select Options from the list on the left-hand side.
This will open a new window where you can change various Word settings, including those related to Protected View.
Step 4: Click Trust Center
Step 4: In the Word Options window, click on Trust Center from the list on the left.
The Trust Center is where you can manage security settings for Word, including Protected View.
Step 5: Open Trust Center Settings
Step 5: Click on the Trust Center Settings button.
This will open another window where you can customize how Word handles potentially unsafe documents.
Step 6: Disable Protected View
Step 6: In the Trust Center window, click on Protected View on the left, and then uncheck the boxes for the types of documents you don’t want to open in Protected View.
You can choose to disable it for files originating from the internet, unsafe locations, or email attachments. Make sure to click OK to save your changes.
After completing these steps, you’ll no longer see the Protected View bar for the types of documents you specified. Be cautious and ensure you trust the sources of your documents.
Tips for Removing Protected View from Word
- Only disable Protected View for files from trusted sources to avoid security risks.
- You can always re-enable Protected View by following the same steps and checking the boxes again.
- Keep your antivirus software up to date to add an extra layer of protection.
- Regularly back up your files, just in case you encounter any issues.
- Consider keeping Protected View enabled for files originating from the internet, as this is a common source of harmful files.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Protected View in Microsoft Word?
Protected View is a security feature in Microsoft Word that opens potentially unsafe documents in a read-only mode.
Why would I want to disable Protected View?
You might want to disable it if you frequently open documents from trusted sources and find the feature inconvenient.
Is it safe to disable Protected View?
It can be safe if you are careful and only open files from trusted sources. However, disabling it increases the risk of opening harmful files.
Can I disable Protected View for specific documents only?
No, the settings apply globally to all documents that fit the criteria you specify.
How do I enable Protected View again?
To enable Protected View again, follow the same steps and check the boxes for the types of documents you want to open in Protected View.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Word.
- Go to the File tab.
- Select Options.
- Click Trust Center.
- Open Trust Center Settings.
- Disable Protected View.
Conclusion
Removing Protected View from Word can make your life a lot easier, especially if you often work with files from trusted sources. Just remember that this feature is there for a reason—to keep you safe from potentially harmful files. So, if you decide to disable it, make sure you’re cautious about the documents you open. Keep your antivirus software updated and always back up your important files. If you follow these steps, you’ll be navigating Word without that annoying yellow bar in no time. If you ever change your mind, you can always reverse the steps and re-enable Protected View. Happy editing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.