You can now import and convert sensitive Excel files into Google Sheets with client-side encryption

Last year, Google announced a new feature that lets you import and convert sensitive Microsoft Excel files into Google Sheets with client-side encryption (CSE). This feature, which was initially launched in open beta, is now generally available.

"When collaborating with external and internal stakeholders, you may find yourself working across both Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel. This update keeps your work moving by layering interoperability on top of the privacy benefits of client-side encryption," Google wrote in a blog post on Monday.

In Google Sheets, navigate to File > Import to import Excel files to Sheets. It is worth mentioning that you can only import .xslx Excel file types with a maximum file size of 10MB while other Excel and tabular file types will not be supported. During import, unsupported Excel features in Sheets will be ignored and the maximum number of cells that you can import is 10 million.

Admins can enable client-side encryption at the domain, OU, and Group levels. Go to the Admin console > Security > Access and data control > Client-side encryption.

Starting today, the new feature is gradually rolling out to Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains and may take up to 15 days to be fully visible. It will be available to Google Workspace Enterprise Plus, Education Plus, and Education Standard customers.