Locked Files

[mlegg]

I am currently having an issue within a Module where students are unable to access a link inside the module. The message students see says, "The file is currently locked". How do I unlock a file?

Thank you!

[kona · Accepted solution]

 @mlegg , greetings and welcome to the Canvas Community! This guide should help explain how you can unlock this file - https://community.canvaslms.com/docs/DOC-12771-415241391 

Hope this helps!

Kona

[mlegg]

Awesome!! Thank you so much!

[kmeeusen]

Hi  @mlegg  and  Welcome   to the Canvas Community!

This is likely because you have those files locked in your files area. Instead of locking your files, I would suggest simply hiding the navigation link to Files, and unlocking the files you use in a module. Learn more at:

• How do I use Files as an instructor? 
• How do I restrict files and folders to students in Canvas? 
• https://community.canvaslms.com/docs/DOC-12933-415257079 

So, if the files are locked, unlock them, then hide the navigation link to your files area.

I hope this is helpful,

Kelley

[LeisaRobson]

Hi @kona. Thanks very helpful, just have a question.  Can the files be locked for separate groups?  We have 2 groups within a course training about 2 weeks apart, and we don't want the second group to access the files or links until their training date arrives. Is this possible?

Thank you.

Leisa

[kona]

Greetings! Unfortunately, no, there is no group option. What you could do is add the files to an assignment (or discussion) and then set the "To Do" access/due dates for the separate groups. This would keep the second group out until you were ready. 

Hope this helps! Kona