Summary
1. Lastic Excel Password Recovery Tool
Lastic Password Recovery Lastic is a tool designed for recovering passwords. It is a separate download from the vendor’s website. Version 1.3.0.2 is the most frequently downloaded one.
Password recovery software is designed to help users who need to try to recover a forgotten password, unlike a simple password remover.
Key Features dedicated software to retrieve passwords from Excel.
designed to recover passwords for Excel.
available as a separate program.
kit for fitting lights.
It is part of a larger line of Lastic password recovery utilities.
Pros
Designed for Excel password recovery.
The light application.
useful in situations where the original password is not readily available.
This is a specialized recovery solution, not a generic file utility.
Cons
The time for recovering the password may differ due to the complexity of the password.
The result of the recovery depends on the file and password.
That is not very helpful for people who only know the password and want to get rid of it fast.
The interface and recovery process might be a bit complicated for the uninitiated.
2. Softaken Freeware Excel Password Remover
Softaken Freeware Excel Password Remover is a Windows based software to recover known passwords from XLS and XLSX files. On its product page, it says it works with Excel 2003 thru 2021 and is compatible with Windows 7 thru Windows 11. It can also be used stand-alone without needing to install Microsoft Excel.
It is for those who wish to forgo password security and do not want to deal with complicated recovery settings and has a simple procedure. Once you know the password it can handle alphabetic, numeric, symbolic and other password characters.
Features:
Supported file types include XLS and XLSX.
removes passwords known for Excel.
It is compatible with Microsoft Excel 2003 - 2021 versions.
It works with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10 and 11.
No need to install Microsoft Excel.
Guided, simple interface
Built to secure your data if you forget your password.
Excel files are ok. The product page does not mention a file size limit.
Pros
Simplest way to remove excel password.
Both XLS and XLSX are supported.
Simple UI for newbies.
works without Microsoft Excel
freeware. There is a free version available.
works with any version of Excel.
Cons:
The freeware app is intended for use with known passwords only.
It’s more Windows-centric than cross-platform.
If users have totally lost their opening password, they may wish a specialized password-recovery program.
3. SysTools XLSX Password Remover
SysTools Excel Password Recovery is a tool that can recover passwords from Excel files, including both XLS and XLSX file types. Also there is a Mac version . The Windows version was updated in February 2026 . Windows and Mac versions are now listed in the product details .
It has many recovery modes and is made for customers who lost their Excel opening password.
Main Components
Supports XLS and XLSX files.
features intelligent recovery modes.
Supports many character types.
It is meant to work with complex and long passwords.
Versions for Mac and Windows are available.
The free version limits the password recovery.
Pros
XLS and XLSX support.
has a variety of options for rehabilitation.
Compatible with Mac & Windows .
for when a password is lost.
It is useful for users who need specialized password recovery.
Cons
The free version has quite a few limitations.
A paid version is needed for full functionality.
Password complexity can impact recovery time.
If you already know your password, you might not want to use the more sophisticated recovery features.
Conclusion:
SysTools is a good program for recovery purposes but it was not rated as the best tool in this comparison as customers who want to only get rid of the password may want a more simple option.
4. Passper for Excel
Passper for Excel can Recover Excel Passwords and Remove Worksheet or Workbook Protection. Its official documentation describes four recovery techniques: dictionary, combination, mask and brute force attacks. It also liberates worksheets and workbooks from formatting and editing restrictions.
The Importance of Features
recovers lost Excel opening passwords
removes the worksheet and workbook protection
Dictionary Attacks combination of attacks.
Mask Attack.
Brute Force Attack works on Mac OS X and Windows.
Desktop processing saves files to your local computer.
Pros
You have 4 options to recover your password.
supports scenarios where you have forgotten your password.
can lift formatting and editing restrictions.
compatible with both Mac and Windows PC.
easy recovery process.
Cons
To use all functions you need to buy a license.
Brute force can take some time to get back to normal.
Password recovery depends on the system, the file, and how complicated the password is.
Too complicated for those who only know the password.
Q & A
1. What is the best Excel password remover in 2026?
In this comparison, Softaken Freeware Excel Password Remover is the overall best choice to remove known passwords from XLS and XLSX files.
2. Is it possible to recover lost excel password with the help of Softaken?
According to the official Softaken page, this freeware program is for passwords you know. Once passwords are forgotten, they cannot be retrieved or cracked.
3. Does Softaken support XLS and XLSX?
Yes, Softaken supports XLS and Excel XLSX file formats.
4. Does Softaken require installation of Microsoft Excel?
Softaken is a stand-alone program as per the official product material. There is no need for installing Microsoft Excel.
5. Which programs are helpful for recovering lost Excel passwords?
Passper for Excel, SysTools XLSX Password Remover and Excel Password Recovery Lastic are programs that are recovery-oriented for situations when users may not remember the original password.
