This is the most secure method, preventing anyone without the password from even viewing the file content. Open the document and click the tab. Select Info from the sidebar. Click Protect Document and then Encrypt with Password .

Use this if you want people to read the document but not change anything. Go to the tab on the top ribbon. Click Protect > Restrict Editing .

In the pane that appears on the right, check . Select No changes (Read only) from the dropdown. Click Yes, Start Enforcing Protection .

(Optional) Enter a password so others cannot simply turn off this restriction. 1. If You Have the Password How to Password Protect Files in Microsoft Word

Enter a strong password, click , re-type it to confirm, and click OK again. Save the document to apply the protection. 2. Editing Restrictions (Read-Only)