Frequently asked question

Can I use or set passwords on a personal geodatabase?

Last Published: April 25, 2020

Answer

No, while the underlying .mdb file supports the use of passwords, the geodatabase and ArcGIS do not. Microsoft Access .mdb files that are password protected cannot be opened in ArcGIS, nor can password protected personal geodatabases be created in ArcGIS.

If the intention is to restrict users from accessing the personal geodatabase, setting the appropriate user level permissions on the folder is recommended. For more information on setting different permissions for different users accessing a personal geodatabase, see the following ESRI Knowledge Base article in the Related Information below.

Article ID:000010036

Software:
  • ArcMap

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