Noneditable

Noneditable is an attribute of data or interface elements that prevents modification by the end user. In software and web design, noneditable elements are used to display information while ensuring it cannot be altered in the current session. Noneditability can be applied to user interface controls, content regions, or data records, and is often implemented through permission settings, state flags, or specific attributes.

In user interfaces, noneditable elements are commonly implemented as read-only or disabled controls. A text input with a readOnly attribute allows selection but prevents typing, whereas a disabled control is not interactive and is typically excluded from form submission. In web content, the contenteditable attribute can be set to false to render a region noneditable even if surrounding content is editable; this helps maintain structure while preventing edits.

In data storage and document management, noneditable states can protect critical fields, templates, or system messages. Databases enforce noneditability through access control and write permissions, and audit trails or version histories preserve historical integrity when edits are not allowed.

Accessibility considerations are important: noneditable controls should convey state clearly to all users. Read-only should be announced appropriately by assistive technologies, and visual cues should reflect the noneditable state.

Relation to related terms: noneditable is often used synonymously with read-only or non-editable. It is distinct from immutability, which implies a dataset or record that cannot ever be changed, typically enforced by architecture rather than a user interface state.