Yes. In fact, you can set up two different types of protection for your Word documents. First, you can password protect the document itself so that only those that have the password can open it. Second, you can protect your document from certain types of changes by other users.
In Microsoft Word 2007, you’ll use the Save As command to set up password protection whereas in earlier versions of Word you’ll use a different process. For password protecting Word 2007 documents, click on the Office button and choose Save As. Click on the Tools link and then select General Options.
Now, do one of the following options (or both if you prefer):
- Type a unique password in the “Password to open” box. This will prompt users to enter the matching password in order to open the document. This password is encrypted, making your document more secure.
- Type a unique password in the “Password to modify” box. This prompts users to enter the matching password in order to save their changes to your document. This password is not encrypted. It is not designed as a security feature rather it is a measure that you can use to prevent unauthorized changes to your document.
- If you don’t want any one making any changes, select the Read only option.
In earlier versions of Word, password protection is also possible. This time, go to the Tools menu and select Options. Click the Security tab and then enter the desired password in the Password to Open box.
No matter which version of Word you are using, when you create passwords to open or modify the document, it is crucial that you don’t forget them. Otherwise, you won’t be able to open or modify your own documents. Create passwords that are at least 8 characters and include upper and lower case letters as well as symbols and numbers.
Never use easy to figure out passwords such as birthdates, pet’s names, nicknames, and other personal information. In addition, avoid words found in a dictionary as hackers use huge databases to crack passwords in mere minutes. Instead, use a combination of characters
An example of a strong password is:
$tRonGe$t!
An example of a weak password is:
fido
Word also features limited document “protection.” Go to the Review tab in Word 2007 and then click on Protect Document. In earlier versions of Microsoft Word, go to Tools > Protect Document. Once the Protection utility is launched, you can restrict formatting and editing.
Password protection and document protection are useful when you have a document containing sensitive information or that you are collaborating on with others. Use strong passwords and don’t forget them!
