How to restrict design and layout views

[anewuser]

I have a database in which I would like to restrict some users from accessing the design and layout views of all objects in the navigation pane. However, I would also like administrative users to be able to access these views.

Can anyone help

[Seth Schrock]

In Access 2010, if you go into design view and view the form's properties, Format tab, there is a property called Allow Layout View. Change this to No.

I don't believe that there is a way to disable design view for some and not for others. You can create a RunTime file that disables all editing capabilities, but a simple change of the file extension (from .accdr to .accdb) re-enables this.

[TheSmileyCoder]

For what we can call a low level of security on a non-split app, you go into options and disable the navigation pane and disable the "Access special keys". This among others disables the F11 key to open the navigation pane. Also disallow Full menus, and default shortcut menus.

This basicly disables all of the design functionality of access UNLESS you hold down shift when you startup the db. This should help prevent unknowing users from accidentally modifying stuff.

If you want more security then that, you need to split the db, and distribute a compiled client, but thats significantly more difficult.

[NeoPa]

That used to be supported by older versions by using a System file. It caused so many issues though (It took a good deal of care and understanding to avoid mucking things up if the defaults weren't used) that they removed the facility.

[anewuser]

Thanks everyone for your help