READ= Data Set Option

Assigns a READ= password to a SAS file that prevents users from reading the file, unless they enter the password.

Valid in: DATA step and PROC steps
Category: Data Set Control
Note: Check your log after this operation to ensure password security. For more information, see Blotting Passwords and Encryption Key Values in SAS Language Reference: Concepts.

Syntax

Syntax Description

read-password

must be a valid SAS name. For more information, see Words in the SAS Language in SAS Language Reference: Concepts.

Details

The READ= option applies to all types of SAS files except catalogs. Use this option to assign a password to a SAS file or to access a read-protected SAS file.
Note: A SAS password does not control access to a SAS file beyond the SAS system. Use the operating system-supplied utilities and file-system security controls to control access to SAS files outside of SAS.

See Also

File Protection in SAS Language Reference: Concepts
Manipulating Passwords in Base SAS Procedures Guide