Restrict Selected Cells While Letting Collaborators Edit Elsewhere

Set permissions for the selected range

Someone may need to edit part of a spreadsheet without being able to change its formulas or reference data. The source describes selecting cells and opening Data, Protected sheets and ranges, then setting permissions for that area. A custom restriction lets the owner decide which collaborators can alter the selected cells while retaining broader editing access elsewhere in the file. This is more targeted than changing everyone's role for the complete spreadsheet.

Distinguish a warning from a restriction

The same panel can show a warning when a protected area is edited instead of preventing the change. That option serves as a reminder rather than the same permission barrier. Choose the behavior according to the workflow and test it with the intended roles. Range protection helps control editing; it should not be treated as a method for keeping visible spreadsheet information confidential from people who can already open it.