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In Excel for the web, open the workbook and select File > Create a Copy > Download a Copy. If prompted to open or save the file, choose Save to keep a copy on your computer.
Download a workbook from Excel for the web
- Open the workbook in Excel for the web.
- Select File > Create a Copy > Download a Copy. See Microsoft’s instructions for saving a copy to your computer.
- If asked whether to open or save the workbook, choose Save. Choosing Open can launch it in Protected View. Some browsers do not show this prompt.
- Look for the file in your browser’s Downloads list or its configured download folder. The download location depends on your browser settings.
Open the downloaded copy in desktop Excel
Open Excel, select File > Open, and choose the downloaded workbook. If a Protected View bar appears, select Enable Editing if you trust the file and need to edit it. Microsoft’s download guidance also explains how to rename or move the file in its containing folder; you may need to show the Ribbon in the Downloads window to see those commands.
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Use a keyboard shortcut to save a copy
While editing, the keyboard route in Microsoft’s screen-reader guidance is Alt+Windows key, F, S, C. It saves a copy to the computer’s Downloads folder. See Microsoft’s basic Excel tasks with a screen reader for the accessibility instructions.
Understand the difference between online saving and downloading
Excel for the web saves your online workbook automatically; downloading is a separate action that creates a local copy. Microsoft’s workbook saving guidance explains that there is no Save button for the online workbook, while a Save As command can create a copy in an online folder.
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If you cannot download the workbook
The owner may have disabled downloads for people with access. Microsoft’s sharing and collaboration tips describe a Can’t download setting that lets recipients view a file while preventing downloads. Ask the owner or administrator to review your access if that restriction is enabled.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check workbook format and feature compatibility
Excel for the web supports formats including .xlsx, .xls, .csv, .xlsb, .ods, and .xlsm, but browser behavior is not identical to desktop Excel. Microsoft notes that .xls and .csv files are converted to .xlsx when opened in the browser, and macros in .xlsm files do not run there. Check Microsoft’s comparison of workbooks in the browser and Excel if a workbook relies on features that may behave differently.
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