What's an ACCDB or ACCDE?
What’s the Difference Between an .ACCDB and an .ACCDE Microsoft Access File? If you're working with Microsoft Access or planning to hire a developer to build an Access database for your business, it's important to understand the significance of these four-letter file extensions. Knowing the difference between .accdb and .accde files can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.
.ACCDB Files are the standard file format for Microsoft Access databases starting with Access 2007 and continuing through Access 2021 and Microsoft 365. These files contain the full source code of the database application, including:
- Forms and Reports
- Queries and Macros
- Tables and Relationships
- VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) Code
The .accdb version is essential if you plan to make modifications, enhance functionality, or troubleshoot issues. Losing this file means you would need to rebuild your entire database from scratch if changes are ever needed. It’s the developer’s editable working file and should always be securely backed up.
.ACCDE Files are the compiled version of an Access database. This format strips out the editable source code and prevents users from modifying forms, reports, queries, or VBA code. It is ideal for securely distributing an Access database while protecting its internal logic and structure.
Key benefits of .ACCDE files include:
- Prevents unauthorized access to source code
- Protects intellectual property and design logic
- Ideal for distributing production-ready databases to users
- Reduces risk of user-induced errors in design objects
However, you cannot convert an .accde file back into an .accdb. For that reason, it’s critical that you retain the original .accdb file if future development or updates may be required.
Important Advice When Hiring or Purchasing: If you are having a database built by an employee, freelancer, or consultant, ensure you receive the .accdb file as part of the deliverables. Without it, you're locked out of future modifications unless the original developer remains available and cooperative. When buying a prebuilt Access database, ask upfront whether you’ll receive an editable (.accdb) or compiled (.accde) version.
Choosing an .accde-only version is acceptable if you’re comfortable with a fixed application that doesn’t require modifications. But if customization is important to your business, the .accdb is a must-have.
At Winning Solutions, Inc. (WSI), we provide expert guidance on Microsoft Access databases, whether you are:
- Building a new Access application
- Modifying an existing database
- Evaluating a pre-built Access solution
- Exploring .accdb and .accde version control
We also offer complete Access services including database design, development, hosting, conversion, and long-term support. Our goal is to help you get the most value from Microsoft Access—no matter your technical level or business size.
Need help deciding between .accdb and .accde? Contact Us today for a consultation or quote. WSI is here to make your Access database experience smooth, secure, and scalable.