SharePoint files open as read-only

Symptoms

At times, you may find that when you open files from SharePoint or OneDrive for Business they open in read-only mode.

Cause

There are several reasons why a file may open as read only:

Resolution

To resolve this issue, one of the following methods may help:

  • Instead of selecting the document title, select Open Menu (the three dots), and then select Edit.

  • If the file is stored on OneDrive and your OneDrive storage space is full, you will be unable to save the document until your storage space is below your allowance. Check your free space on OneDrive by selecting the OneDrive icon in the notification center and choosing Manage storage, or go to https://onedrive.live.com, sign in, and note the amount of used space in the lower-left corner of the screen.

  • If Office is not activated, or if your subscription has expired, you might be in read-only Reduced Functionality Mode. For information on how to Activate Office, see Unlicensed Product and activation errors in Office.

  • Right-click the file and choose Properties. If the Read-only attribute is checked, uncheck it and select OK.

    Screenshot of the Properties dialog, where you can clear the read-only attribute check box.

Other methods to try

More information

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