File Protection makes the contents of a protected DGN file inaccessible to unauthorized persons, even if they hold a copy of the file. File Protection is based on standardized cryptography and digital certificate mechanisms that restrict access in several ways, from simple password protection to digital rights enforcement.

The author limits access to designated users who are identified by digital certificates. Before opening a protected file, MicroStation authenticates the current user, disables functions that are not permitted, and applies the assigned rights. When in a rights-restricted file, the product loads only digitally signed applications that have been identified by the author as rights-compliant.