How can I "lock" spreadsheets in Excel, for read only purposes?

Answer 1

Open the spreadsheet. On the FILE menu, click PROPERTIES. On the properties GENERAL tab, click Read Only and save it.

Answer 2

If I may add to what Eener stated... while someone may perform Save-As on a locked document they cannot change the original without unlocking the document using your password.

Of course, there is always the case of the sophisticated user that knows the complete format of a particular file structure that could circumvent the security.

Answer 3

It is called Protect Worksheet/Workbook. You can lock a spreadsheet/book and allow it to be opened as a read-only under Tools/Options/Security but they can still "save as" to another document and make changes. Stupid.

The link below is to protect a worksheet/book. I am hoping it is a more secure option. You can add a still password protect to control the who and whats.

I hope this is what you are looking for.