Question : Password security for linked tables in Access

My Microsoft Access 2007 application is split into a front-end program and back-end database. The front-end has access to the backend through linked tables.

Whenever I password protect the back-end database the tables can be linked if the proper password is supplied. However, the password is apparently stored for subsequent access as the linked table can be opened without any further password prompt, even after exit & restart.

I could delete all links during program exit and recreate them during startup; however I am wondering if there is a conceptually better solution where the password is not stored in the linked table definition; in particular you could imagine a crash or dead battery through which the program exits prematurely and leaves all data exposed through the front-end linked tables.

Thanks for any suggestions or eventual misunderstandings on my side on how this actually works.

Valérie

Answer : Password security for linked tables in Access

In this scenario, the password is stored in the Connection String (link).  So, as you've discovered ... when the MDB is open ... anyone can view data who may have access to the database container (window).

The one scenario that would get around this ... but requiring considerable more code and redesign ... would be to *not* link at all, but instead use the OpenDatabase Method in vba code (via DAO) for all data accessing operations, including creating Record Source's for forms, combo boxes, etc.  Depending on your app, this could be a significant change.

This is the only scenario I am aware of to avoid this situation.

mx