How to Unblock an Older Version of Microsoft in the Registry

An error message may appear when you try to open a file that was created in an earlier version of Microsoft. The message can read: "You are attempting to open a file type File_Type that has been blocked by your File Block settings in the Trust Center." Another similar error message may appear when you try to save an older file type. To enhance security, users can block a file type that they feel may be less secure. In a few easy steps, you can change these registry policy settings to suit your preferences.

• 1

  Start Microsoft Word and then click the "File" tab.

• 2

  Click "Options" under "Help."

• 3

  Click "Trust Center" in the left panel of the Word Options screen.

• 4

  Click "Trust Center Settings" on the right of the Word Options screen.

• 5

  Click "File Block Settings" in the left panel of the Trust Center screen.

• 6

  Remove the check in the "Open" box next to the type of file you want to unblock and open. These items are listed under "File Type." Repeat this step for all of the file types you would like to unblock and open.

• 7

  Remove the check in the "Save" box next to the type of file you would like to unblock and save. These items are listed under "File Type." Repeat this step for all of the file types you would like to unblock and save.

• 8

  Click "OK" twice to exit the Trust Center and Word Options screens.