To stop casual edits to a Microsoft Word document, use Review > Restrict Editing and choose No changes (Read only). You can add a password when enforcing the restriction. This limits changes to that copy of the document; it does not prevent someone from making a separate copy.
Lock editing in desktop Word
- Open the document and save a backup copy before changing its protection.
- Select Review > Restrict Editing. On some versions, open Review > Protect > Restrict Editing.
- In the pane, select Allow only this type of editing in the document and choose No changes (Read only).
- Select Yes, Start Enforcing Protection.
- Enter and confirm a password if you want to stop someone from simply turning off protection. Store it somewhere you can retrieve it, then save the document.
Microsoft says the password is optional, but without one anyone can select Stop Protection and edit again. See its read-only and Restrict Editing instructions.
Unlock the document later
Open Review > Restrict Editing, choose Stop Protection, and enter the password if prompted. Save the document after removing the restriction. If you do not know the password, use an unprotected backup or contact the owner; do not assume Word can recover it.
If you received a locked file and aren’t sure which kind of protection it uses, this guide on how to unlock a Word document covers each case.
Choose the right kind of protection
Restrict Editing is useful when people should read a file without changing its protected content. If you simply want the file to open in viewing mode, Word also offers File > Info > Protect Document > Always Open Read-Only. That is an editing prompt, not a way to control all copies. For a cloud document shared through OneDrive or SharePoint, set the recipient’s sharing permission to Can view when you share it. A recipient may still be able to download or save their own copy. Our read-only Word guide covers the broader choices.
Common questions
Does a password stop people from copying the document?
No. A Restrict Editing password helps prevent removing the editing restriction on the protected file. It does not stop readers from making a new file containing the content.
Can I allow comments but block other edits?
The Restrict Editing pane offers different permitted editing types, including comments in supported versions. Choose the type that matches your review workflow before enforcing protection.
Can I leave some text editable?
Word supports exceptions and section-based restrictions for more complex forms. Check the exceptions area of the Restrict Editing pane and test the result with a copy before sharing.
Matt has been writing about Microsoft Windows and other Microsoft products since the days of Windows XP. He spends much of his time writing for sites like WindowBrain.com