How to Make Access Runtime 2019 Open ACCDB in Runtime Mode
Question details
The user needs to restrict users to runtime mode when opening an Access database, preventing them from accessing full design and table creation capabilities.
- Product
- Microsoft Access 2019
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Deploying a Microsoft Access database to end-users in a locked-down state where they cannot modify tables or designs.
- Observed behavior
- Access Runtime 2019 behaves like a full installation, allowing users to create databases and tables when installed alongside Office Standard 2019.
Before modifying file extensions or compiling your database, ensure you have a secure backup of your original .accdb file stored in a safe directory.
Rename the File Extension to ACCDR
The quickest way to force an Access database to open in runtime mode is by changing the file extension, which instructs Access to simulate the runtime environment.
This method is highly effective for casual deployments but relies on the file extension. If a user has the full version of Access installed, they could theoretically rename it back to bypass the restriction.
Open File Explorer and navigate to the folder containing your target .accdb database file.
If you cannot see the .accdb extension, go to the 'View' tab in File Explorer and check the 'File name extensions' box.
Right-click the database file, select 'Rename', and change the '.accdb' extension to '.accdr'. Press Enter to confirm.
Double-click the newly renamed .accdr file. It will now launch strictly in runtime mode, disabling design views and table creation.
Deploy the Database as an ACCDE File
Compiling the database into an ACCDE file locks the design view of forms, reports, and VBA modules, offering much stronger protection than a simple rename.
Exclude Full Access Installation via ODT
Prevent the full version of Access from installing alongside Office Standard 2019 by modifying your deployment XML configuration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Access Runtime act like a full version?
If a full version of Microsoft Access or an Office suite containing it (like Office Standard or Professional) is installed on the same machine, the Access Runtime environment relies on those full application libraries, inadvertently granting users design and creation permissions.
Can a user easily bypass the ACCDR runtime mode restriction?
Yes. Renaming the extension to ACCDR only simulates the runtime environment. An experienced user can simply right-click the file, rename the extension back to ACCDB, and regain full design access if they have the full Access application installed.
What is the difference between deploying an ACCDR and an ACCDE file?
An ACCDR is simply a standard database file renamed to force runtime mode, making it easily reversible. An ACCDE is a fully compiled executable version of the database where all VBA source code is removed and design views are permanently locked, offering much higher security.
