Locking all a workbook

[bundyloco]

Is there a way to lock the cells in a workbook so they can't be changed?
I have a workbook with about 20 worksheets that I would like to lock
before distributing. I can lock the cells, but the only way I have
found to do it by going through one sheet at a time and locking the
sheet (Very slow).

When I try the lock workbook under protection, I am still able to
modify the cells afterwards.

Secondly, there a few cells on the first worksheet that I would like to
allow the user to modify (for what if scenarios). Does anyone have any
ideas?

 

[dominicb]

Good morning bundyloco

When you use Tools > Protection > Worksheet Protection all the cells
that are marked as locked are protected. Each cell is locked by
default when a new workbook is opened. You need to make sure that all
the cells bar the ones you want to change are locked. You can set the
"locked" status through ctrl + 1, Protection, Locked. There is no way
to protect multiple sheets from within Excel, but I have a free add-in
available to anyone who requests it that can protect multiple sheets at
a stroke, and also has a utility that will help you identify which cells
are unlocked. If you would like this add-in just send me an e-mail.

HTH
DominicB
(e-mail address removed)