How to Change Read-Only Files in Microsoft Word

By Tammy Clevenger

In Microsoft Windows operating systems, file properties known as "attributes" may be set to control the use of the file. For example, a file attribute may be set on the file to make the file "Read-Only." To prevent editing of a Microsoft Office Word document, the document may be configured as "Read-Only." Using Windows Explorer, however, you can change the file attribute on the Microsoft Word document file to remove the "Read-Only" property.

Close Microsoft Word.

Right-click on the Microsoft Word document and select "Properties" from the context menu.

Clear the "Read-Only" checkbox in the Properties dialog box.

Click "OK."

Right-click on the Word document and select "Open with Microsoft Word" from the context menu. You should now be able to edit the formerly read-only Word document.

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