NTFS Read\Write for Word and Excel Document.

Microsoft Word and Excel don't modify a file in place when you save it. Instead, they:

1. Create a temporary file in the same folder (e.g., ~$filename.tmp or similar).
2. Delete the original file.
3. Rename the temporary file to the original name.

Because of this the user needs “Delete” and “Rename” permissions on the file and the folder to save successfully. If you remove Delete permission, saving fails because Office apps can't delete the original file during the save process. To allow editing but prevent intentional deletion, you need a slightly more advanced setup.

Option 1: Use “Modify” but Deny Delete only at the file level

You can allow editing (via “Modify”) but deny deletion through inheritance control.

Steps:

1. Give Modify permission on the folder.
2. Explicitly Deny “Delete” and “Delete subfolders and files” only on the folder, not on files.

This way:

• The user can save changes (Office can delete and rename temporary files).
• The user cannot delete files manually in Explorer.

Example using Advanced Security Settings:

1. Right-click the folder → Properties → Security → Advanced
2. Click Add → Choose the user or group
3. Set:
   • Applies to: “This folder only”
   • Check Deny for:
     • Delete
     • Delete subfolders and files
   • Leave Modify / Write allowed for subfiles.

Option 2: Use a “Shared folder” with version control or shadow copies

If your true goal is to prevent data loss rather than stop all deletions, consider:

• Enabling Previous Versions / Shadow Copies on the share.
• Or use SharePoint / OneDrive which allows editing but versions every save.

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hth

Marcin