Microsoft Access - File Blocked

Overview

This article explains how to resolve blocked file issues within Microsoft Access.

Information

NOTE: These steps must be performed through a Windows instance. Mac users will need to access the VOAL in order to resolve the issue.

  1. Download the Access file(s) that you want to open.
  2. Open File Explorer and choose your preferred location (e.g. “Documents”).
  3. Select the “New” dropdown, then select “Folder.”
  4. Name the new folder and press Enter.
  5. Select the downloaded Access files and drag them to the new folder to move them.
  6. Open Microsoft Access, then go to "Options" -> "Trust Center" -> "Trust Center Settings" -> "Trusted Locations" -> "Add new location..." -> "Browse..."
    1. NOTE: Always open the Microsoft Access application directly. Attempting to open Access by opening an Access file will cause issues.
  7. Select the folder containing the Access file(s), then press “OK” on any popups that appear.
  8. Close and re-open Microsoft Access.
  9. Select “Open” and then “Browse” from the start menu, then open the Access file(s) in the folder.
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