How to Recover Unsaved VBA Code? Top 4 Methods

Losing unsaved VBA code can be a frustrating experience, especially after investing significant time in creating powerful Excel macros. Yes, recovering unsaved VBA code is possible using methods like AutoRecover, temporary files, version history, or specialized tools. This guide will walk you through the most effective recovery solutions, preventative strategies, and advanced software tools to avoid future data loss. This guide provides methods to remove password from VBA Project code while offering tips to prevent future data loss.

Why Recovering VBA Code Matters?

VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) is integral to automating Excel tasks and enhancing productivity. It plays a critical role in automating repetitive tasks in Excel, boosting productivity for users. However, losing unsaved VBA code can be frustrating, especially after hours of work. Fortunately, there are reliable methods to recover your unsaved VBA code, whether through AutoRecover, temporary files, or cloud backups.?

Can Unsaved VBA Code Be Recovered?

Yes, you can recover unsaved VBA code using various methods such as AutoRecover, exploring temporary files, or leveraging backups if enabled.

Losing VBA code can be devastating, especially after investing time in creating complex macros. Fortunately, recovery is often possible if the appropriate steps are followed. Tools like Excel’s AutoRecover and cloud-based services like OneDrive offer ways to recover your unsaved work. Additionally, maintaining regular backups or using professional recovery tools can enhance your chances of regaining lost data.

Method 1. Check the VBA Project Backup Folder

Losing unsaved VBA code doesn’t always mean it’s gone forever. Excel and related environments often create backup files for projects in specific locations.

Step 1. Steps to Locate VBA Project Backups

Check Excel’s backup folder for VBA project files. By default, Excel stores these files in locations such as:

• For Windows: C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Office
• For Mac: ~/Library/Application Support/Microsoft/Office

Step 2. Manually Browse VBA Code Files

Open the directory and search for .xlb, .xlsb, or .xlsm files. These file types may contain VBA projects embedded in them.

Step 3. Restore Backups

If a backup file is available, open it in Excel and navigate to the VBA editor (Alt + F11). Copy the code and save it into your current project.

By regularly saving your work and enabling Excel’s backup features, you can minimize the risks of losing valuable VBA code.

Method 2. Use Excel AutoRecover to Retrieve Unsaved VBA Code

AutoRecover is a lifesaver for unsaved workbooks that include VBA macros. While AutoRecover primarily protects workbook data, embedded macros can also be recovered.

Steps to Use AutoRecover

• Step 1. Open Excel and go to File > Options > Save.
• Step 2. Note the directory path under AutoRecover file location.
• Step 3. Navigate to this folder (default on Windows: C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Excel\).
• Step 4. Look for files with extensions like .xlsb or .tmp in the folder.
• Step 5. If macros are enabled in the recovered workbook, press Alt + F11 to access the VBA editor.
• Step 6. Copy the VBA code into a new module or project for backup.

Method 3. Search Temporary Files

Temporary files created during crashes or interruptions may hold your unsaved VBA scripts.

Steps to Access Temporary Files

• Step 1. Navigate to the temporary file directory (C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Temp).
• Step 2. Sort files by date modified to find recent ones.
• Step 3. Look for .tmp or .xlsb extensions, and try opening these files in Excel.
• Step 4. Check the VBA editor (Alt + F11) to see if the code is intact.
• Step 5. Rename and open the file in the relevant Office application to check for your VBA code.

What are the Drawbacks of Using Manual Methods

There are some known drawbacks of these manual approaches which are asked by various users. Here are some of those limitations mentioned for our users :

1. Limited to autosave intervals, and may not include the latest changes.
2. May not contain complete code, and can be difficult to locate.
3. Only useful if regular backups are enabled and up-to-date.
4. Difficult to recover fragmented or corrupted code manually.
5. Can affect other files or settings on your system, and might not recover the exact VBA project.

Method 5. Use VBA Password Recovery Software (Advanced Method)

If you’ve saved your VBA project but locked it with a password and now cannot access it, advanced tools like SysTools VBA Password Remover tool can help unlock your project and recover the code.

This is a user-friendly solution for removing passwords from VBA projects across a variety of Microsoft Office files. Whether you’re working with Excel, Word, Access, or PowerPoint files, this tool provides a reliable and secure way to unlock password-protected VBA code in just a few clicks.

Features That Makes It Different From Other Manual Approaches

• Recover and Unlock VBA Projects: Easily retrieve and unlock password-protected VBA project files in MS Office applications like Excel, Word, and Access.
• Support for Multiple Office Versions: Compatible with MS Office 2021, 2019, 2016, and earlier versions.
• User-Friendly Interface: Designed for both technical and non-technical users.
• Instant Recovery: Quickly unlock VBA projects with minimal effort.
• Retain Code Integrity: Ensures no damage or alteration to your VBA code during recovery

How to Recover Unsaved VBA Code Easily?

• Step 1. Install and run SysTools VBA Password Remover.

• Step 2. Click Add Files or Add Folder to upload .xlsm or similar files.

• Step 3. The software displays file paths and sizes in its interface. Select Remove Password for VBA project recovery and select Remove Password for VBA project recovery.

• Step 5. Click OK to Remove VBA code.

• Step 6. Once done, confirm the successful removal of the password and recover your VBA code.

To make your process more simplified here is the detailed working video of the software.

Conclusion

Recovering unsaved VBA code can be challenging, but with methods like AutoRecover, temporary files, cloud backups, and specialized tools like SysTools VBA Password Remover, success is within reach. By implementing the proactive measures mentioned, you can ensure the safety of your VBA projects for future use.