Which Padlock Do You Need?

Q: I have an XLAM add-in — which product do I need?

VBA Padlock . XLS Padlock does not support Excel Add-in files (.xlam). VBA Padlock compiles your add-in's VBA code into signed DLLs and includes a licensing system so you can sell it commercially.

Q: I want to hide my Excel formulas. Which product?

XLS Padlock . VBA Padlock protects VBA macros, not cell formulas or workbook structure. XLS Padlock encrypts the entire workbook and prevents "Save As", so your formulas are never exposed.

Q: Do I need VBA Padlock for Word, Access, or PowerPoint?

Yes. VBA Padlock is the only product that works across all Office applications. XLS Padlock is Excel-only. If your VBA project runs in Word, Access, or PowerPoint, VBA Padlock is your only option.

Two products, two different jobs. Find yours in 30 seconds.

Infographic comparing XLS Padlock (Excel workbook to EXE application) and VBA Padlock (VBA macros to signed DLL binaries) — XLS Padlock converts workbooks into standalone apps. VBA Padlock compiles VBA macros into signed DLLs.

Answer One Question

What is the main asset you need to protect?

My Excel Workbook

Formulas, cell data, workbook structure — I want to turn my spreadsheet into a standalone application.

XLS Padlock

My VBA Source Code

Macros, business logic, algorithms — I want to compile my VBA into secure DLLs and license it.

VBA Padlock

Side-by-Side Comparison

A detailed feature matrix to help you decide.

Feature	XLS Padlock	VBA Padlock
Main goal	Workbook → EXE App	VBA → Signed DLLs
Output format	.exe executable	.dll binaries + Office file
Protects formulas & cell data
Protects VBA macros	Partial (VBE lock)
Office support	Excel only	Excel, Word, Access, PPT
XLAM / DOTM add-in support
Hide Excel UI (ribbon, menus)
Auto-enable macros (no prompt)
License keys & hardware locking
Online activation server
Automatic updates
Developer API (VBA)

Common Scenarios

Real-world situations — find the one that matches yours.

Financial model with proprietary formulas

→ XLS Padlock

Your formulas are the IP. XLS Padlock encrypts the entire workbook and prevents Save As.

Excel add-in (XLAM) sold to customers

→ VBA Padlock

XLS Padlock doesn't support XLAM. VBA Padlock compiles your add-in code and adds licensing.

Word template with complex automation

→ VBA Padlock

XLS Padlock is Excel-only. VBA Padlock works across all Office applications including Word.

Access database with business logic

→ VBA Padlock

Compile your Access VBA into DLLs to protect queries, form logic, and data processing code.

Excel app distributed as a standalone program

→ XLS Padlock

You want your clients to run an EXE — no Excel visible, no toolbar, no formulas exposed.

Excel workbook with sensitive macros AND formulas

→ Both

Use XLS Padlock for the workbook and VBA Padlock for the VBA code. Maximum protection.

Ready to Protect Your Work?

XLS Padlock

Turn your Excel workbook into a secure, standalone Windows application with encrypted formulas and built-in licensing.

Visit xlspadlock.com

VBA Padlock

Compile your VBA macros into signed 32-bit and 64-bit DLLs. Works with Excel, Word, Access, and PowerPoint.

Download Free Trial

Still Not Sure?

Answers to the most common questions about choosing between XLS Padlock and VBA Padlock.

Can I use both XLS Padlock and VBA Padlock together?

Yes. XLS Padlock protects your workbook (formulas, structure, UI) and VBA Padlock protects your VBA source code. If your Excel project has both sensitive formulas and valuable VBA macros, using both gives you the strongest protection. To do this, add the three DLLs from VBA Padlock's bin/ folder as Companion Files in XLS Padlock so they are bundled inside the generated EXE.

I have an XLAM add-in — which product do I need?

VBA Padlock. XLS Padlock does not support Excel Add-in files (.xlam). VBA Padlock compiles your add-in's VBA code into signed DLLs and includes a licensing system so you can sell it commercially.

I want to hide my Excel formulas. Which product?

XLS Padlock. VBA Padlock protects VBA macros, not cell formulas or workbook structure. XLS Padlock encrypts the entire workbook and prevents "Save As", so your formulas are never exposed.

Do I need VBA Padlock for Word, Access, or PowerPoint?

Yes. VBA Padlock is the only product that works across all Office applications. XLS Padlock is Excel-only. If your VBA project runs in Word, Access, or PowerPoint, VBA Padlock is your only option.

Which product includes a licensing system?

Both include licensing features: trial periods, hardware locking, and license keys. However, VBA Padlock's licensing is more developer-oriented with an API you can call from your code, online activation, and a PHP server kit for managing activations.

Still have questions?