Excel: Types of File Sharing/File Protection

Last reviewed: November 2, 1994
Article ID: Q67475

SUMMARY

When the Option button is clicked in the Microsoft Excel Save As dialog box (on the File menu), the option of setting the file sharing privileges of the file is available. Below are the differences among the choices:

  • Protection Password: This prevents the file from being opened. The only method of opening a file with a protection password is to supply Excel with the proper password when prompted by Excel.
  • Write Reservation: This allows anyone to open the file. However, only individuals who know the password can save changes to the file. You can save the file with any changes you have made to a new filename, regardless of whether you know the password. Write reservation is designed to protect data and formatting, not as a security feature.
  • Read Only Recommendation: Designed for use on networks, this reminds you that other people may need to use the file at the same time. By opening it as read only, users that need to make changes to the file are still able to. There is no password associated with this feature.

For more information on protecting documents, see pages 556 to 562 in the "Microsoft Excel User's Guide" version 3.0 manual.


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Last reviewed: November 2, 1994
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