Try

ToolsoptionsGeneral and un-check 'ignore other applications'

--
HTH
Nick Hodge
Microsoft MVP - Excel
Southampton, England
DTHIS
www.nickhodge.co.uk


wrote in message
oups.com...
Recently, my data and programs were moved from a nicely working system
to a new one. For some reason, I'm unable to open excel files (whether
using plug ins or not) as stand alones. I have to open the excel
application and then open the file from within. I've reloaded excel
and no change! Any suggestions?

thx.