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Installing the XlBlocks Excel Add-In

Follow these steps to install the XlBlocks Excel Add-In on your system:

Step 1: Download the Add-In

  1. Visit the XlBlocks GitHub repository.
  2. Navigate to the Releases section.

  3. Download the .xll file that matches your system's bitness:

    • 32-bit Excel: Download XlBlocks-AddIn-packed.xll.
    • 64-bit Excel: Download XlBlocks-AddIn64-packed.xll.

      Note: If you're unsure about your Excel version's bitness, you can check it by going to File > Account > About Excel in Excel.

  4. Save the file to a location on your computer where you can easily find it, such as your Documents folder or a dedicated XlBlocks folder.

  5. Because the XlBlocks Add-In is relatively new, Windows may "block" the file. To unblock it:
    • Right-click on the downloaded .xll file.
    • Select Properties.
    • In the Properties window, check the box that says Unblock (if present).
    • Click OK to apply the changes.

Step 2: Add the Add-In Directory as a Trusted Location

In order to ensure Excel can load the add-in without any security warnings, it is best to add the directory where you saved the .xll file as a trusted location. This is not a required step, but it is recommended for a smoother experience.

  1. Open Excel.
  2. Go to File > Options.
  3. In the left-hand menu, select Trust Center.
  4. Click on Trust Center Settings.
  5. In the Trust Center, select Trusted Locations.
  6. Add the folder where you downloaded the .xll file as a trusted location:
  7. Click Add new location.
  8. Browse to the folder containing the .xll file and confirm.

Step 3: Load the Add-In

  1. Go to File > Options > Add-Ins.
  2. At the bottom of the window, select Excel Add-ins from the dropdown and click Go.
  3. In the Add-Ins dialog, click Browse and locate the downloaded .xll file.
  4. Select the file and click OK to load the add-in.

Step 4: Verify Installation

  1. After loading the add-in, you should see the XlBlocks functionality available in Excel. You can verify this by checking for the XlBlocks tab in the Excel ribbon.
  2. If you encounter any issues, ensure the folder containing the .xll file is added as a trusted location in the Trust Center and the file is "unblocked" as described in Step 1.

You're all set! Enjoy using XlBlocks in Excel.