To password protect a Word document and keep its contents secure, follow these steps using Microsoft Word:
- Open Your Word Document: Start by opening the Word document that you want to password protect.
- Go to File Menu: Click on the “File” menu at the top left corner of the Word window.
- Select Info: In the File menu, click on “Info” from the options displayed on the left-hand side.
- Select Protect Document: Under the Info menu, you will see an option called “Protect Document.” Click on it to reveal a drop-down menu.
- Choose Encrypt with Password: In the Protect Document drop-down menu, select “Encrypt with Password.”
- Set Password: A dialog box will appear asking you to set a password for the document. Enter a strong and secure password. It is important to remember this password as it will be required to open the document in the future.
- Confirm Password: After entering the password, you will be asked to confirm it. Re-enter the password to confirm and click “OK.”
- Save the Document: Once you have set the password, save the document. It is essential to save the document after enabling the password protection for the settings to take effect.
Now, your Word document is password protected. The next time you or someone else tries to open the document, they will be prompted to enter the password you set. Make sure to keep the password secure and in a safe place to prevent losing access to your document.