How to Lock Access Database from Editing? – 5 Ways!

As we all know, MS Access databases are widely used for data management. However, it is important to protect these databases from unauthorized editing by using Access’s built-in locking feature or strong password. Thus, if you also want to password encrypt your important database file, just check out this blog. In this post, I will discuss step-by-step methods on how to lock Access database from editing and prevent unwanted changes.

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Why You Should Lock an Access Database?

In this era, it is essential to protect your data from unauthorized access or even changes. If you allow numerous users to access your database, some might intentionally or accidentally edit the data stored within it. However, by locking the MS Access database, you safeguard your important information & ensure that only authorized users can make changes.

How to Lock Access Database from Editing?

Follow the below step-by-step methods to protect your Access database from editing.

Way 1- Encrypt the DB File with a Password

The very first straightforward method is encrypting your database with a strong password. This means that only those who can unlock or access the database who have the password of that DB file have the right to edit the data within it.

  • Launch Microsoft Access >> choose Open.
  • Choose the Browse option >> select the .ACCDB file to set the password.
  • Now, from the dropdown, you have to choose the “Open Exclusive” option >> hit a File tab.

Open Exclusive

  • Then, click on Info option >> choose Encrypt with Password option to lock the Access database.

Encrypt with Password

  • Finally, enter the database password & verify it.

Also Read: Unlock Or Remove Access Database LDB/LACCDB File

Way 2- Setting Up the User-Level Security in Access

User-level security is another effective resolution to lock the Access database from editing. You can eventually create diverse user groups & assign specific permissions to allow only selected entities can make edits.

Here are the steps to apply this method:

  • Open your MS Access database.
  • Go to the “Tools” menu >> click on the “Security” >> “User and Group Accounts.”
  • Now, create user accounts with limited permissions for editing.
  • Give permission to each user & save the changes.

Way 3- How to Lock Access Database from Editing by Making the DB Read-Only

Many users have reported that they protected their databases by making them read-only. Although this tactic is ideal if you want users to view the data without making changes.

Steps to Make a Database Read-Only:

  • Launch Windows File Explorer.
  • Find your Access DB file and right-click on it to select the “Properties.”

Properties

  • In the “General” tab, you have to check “Read-only” box.
  • Choose “Apply” >> “OK” to save the changes.

Way 4- Splitting the Database

Splitting the MS Access database into a front-end & back-end file can offer better control. The back end holds the data tables, while the front end holds forms, reports, and queries. However, by locking the back end and granting limited permissions to the front end, you can efficiently prevent editing.

Way 5- How to Password Protect Access Database by Disabling Design Changes?

There is another yet option to protect Access database from editing is disabling design changes in your database. This certifies that users can only access the DB in a predefined structure.

Follow the below instructions carefully to disable design changes:

  • Open your database.
  • Navigate to “File” tab >> click “Options” >> “Current Database.

Current Database

  • After that, scroll to a “Design” section & disable the option “Allow Design Changes“.
  • Press CTRL+ S to save the changes you have made.

Related FAQs:

Can You Lock an Access Database from Editing?

Yes, the Microsoft Access database can be easily locked from editing by applying the solutions outlined in this blog.

What Is One Method to Secure MS Access Database to Prevent Accidental Damage?

Creating a backup of the Access database or setting up user-level security can help you to secure the MS Access database to prevent accidental damage.

How to Protect the Database Against Threats or Unauthorized Access?

You can use strong encryption to protect the database against threats or unauthorized access.

What Are the Two Types of Database Lock?

The two types of database locks in Microsoft Access are shared locks and exclusive locks.

Bottom Line

So here it comes to the end of this blog. I hope the approaches are clear on how to protect Access database from editing. Now, if you are in a similar situation where you want to password encrypt your database or make it read-only, quickly follow the ways to deal with it.

Last but not least, if you like this article, do share your experience with us via our Facebook & Twitter pages.

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Pearson Willey is a website content writer and long-form content planner. Besides this, he is also an avid reader. Thus he knows very well how to write an engaging content for readers. Writing is like a growing edge for him. He loves exploring his knowledge on MS Access & sharing tech blogs.

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