Buzz
In reality, dealing with the Word file read-only error is not too complex, as users can save it as a different file to avoid the issue. However, understanding the reasons behind the read-only status is preferable for a more permanent solution rather than a temporary fix.
Additionally, users can reset the read-only status for the current or other files. In this article, Mytour guides you on addressing the read-only Word file error through basic steps and disabling Protected View to reduce encountering such issues. Note that toggling Protected View affects file security to some extent, but various other methods enhance Word data security, discussed in the final part of the article.
Resolving Read-Only Word File Issue
When opening a file and seeing 'Read Only,' it means the file is set for read-only access. To modify the content, save it as a new file. Let's address this situation as follows:
Step 1: Right-click on File > select Properties.
Step 2: In Properties, simply uncheck Read only, then click Apply and Ok. That's it!
In the case of a file reporting Protected View, similar to the 'Read Only' situation, you need to click on Enable Editing to make changes. It's a mode designed to enhance the security of your computer.
Afterward, you can edit as usual.
Disabling Protected View, Removing Read-Only from Word Files
In the previous section, we learned how Word files become read-only. If you want to avoid this scenario, turn off Protected View entirely. However, keep in mind that this mode is designed to protect you from opening unfamiliar files and safeguard your files when accessed on different machines.
1. Disable Protected View in Word 2016, 2013
Step 1: To disable Protected View in Word 2016, 2013, click on the File tab.
Step 2: Here, click on Options to access Word Options.
Step 3: Then, navigate to Trust Center and subsequently click on Trust Center Settings.
Step 4: In Trust Center, simply uncheck all options to disable Protected View in Word 2016, 2013.
2. Disable Protected View in Word 2010, 2007
Step 1: Similarly, for Word 2010, 2007, click on the File tab.
Step 2: Here, click on Options to access Word Options.
Step 3: Then, proceed to Trust Center and then click on Trust Center Settings.
Step 4: In Trust Center, simply uncheck all options to disable Protected View in Word 2010, 2007.
Here is a guide to help you address the issue of Word files being read-only and how to turn off Protected View. To enhance the security of your Word files, users can also set passwords, and the password protection for Word files applies to all Word versions: 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, 2003.
Word files may encounter various issues during usage. Aside from being read-only, the error of Word files being unprintable can also cause headaches. If you face this issue, check out how to fix Word files not printing error here.
