Database Password & Locked Linked Table

[bkf7911]

Multi-level security has been a bear for me in the past because not everyone here has the same drive letter assigned to the server that houses the database. I want to simplify my database security, but still have it strong. Is there a way to prevent linked tables from being edited if I only set the database password?

 

[jrbarnett]

What platform is the backend database? (is it Access as well as an Access front end?)

John

 

[bkf7911]

Aye, they're both in access.

 

[jrbarnett]

Put the back end database in a folder with read only access (using network file system permissions). That way, nobody can write to it.

To get around different drive mappings, use a UNC path (eg \\Server\Share\YourDatabase\yourdb.mdb)
This will be the same regardless of what the drive mapping is.

Another alternative is to migrate the backend data to SQL Server express or MySQL and connect using an account that only has read access to the tables.

John

 

[bkf7911]

I don't think I'll be able to have a read only folder, and can't migrate the data out of access. But that UNC Path thingie? That's some pure awesome! Thanks much!!

 

[bkf7911]

And just wondering, but is there a way to store the UNC path rather than the drive letter when linking tables in MS Access? That way, i wouldn't need a front end for every drive.

 

[bkf7911]

Maybe i should try to do things before asking questions about them. Answered my own question about the one above. Just navigated through the Network Places option when linking in a table.

 

[jrbarnett]

Another technique you might find helpful is to create an MDE file of your database (tools -> database utilities -> make MDE).

You need to keep the source code safe since this makes any VBA code, forms, reports etc uneditable.
Any modifications have to be done in the original MDB file and then a new MDE created.

John