How can I exit read-only mode in Webflow when changes are not being saved?
TL;DR
- Confirm you have edit permissions in Workspace Settings and are logged in with the correct account.
- Exit preview or shared read-only modes and ensure no one else is editing the project.
- Check your internet connection, refresh the Designer, and log out/in if needed.
- Use an up-to-date version of Chrome or Safari for best compatibility.
If you're seeing a “Read-Only” mode warning in Webflow and changes aren’t saving, it typically means the project is locked or you don’t have editing permissions. Here’s how to resolve it.
1. Check Your Account Permissions
- Team and Workspace Members may have view-only access if they're not assigned the necessary role.
- Go to Workspace Settings > Members to check your access level.
- You must have one of the following roles to edit: Designer, Admin, or Owner.
2. Leave Preview or Read-Only Share Mode
- If you’re in a read-only preview from a share link, you can’t make edits.
- Make sure you're logged into Webflow using the same account that owns or has access to edit the project.
- If you're viewing a project via a read-only link, you must switch to direct editing from the Dashboard.
3. Ensure the Designer Is Not Locked
- Webflow locks the Designer interface when someone else is editing the project.
- If you see a "This project is currently being edited by..." message, wait for them to close their session or ask them to publish or exit so you can take over.
4. Check for Internet Connection or Sync Issues
- A weak or intermittent connection can cause Webflow to enter read-only mode.
- Check your internet connection and refresh the Designer to resync with Webflow’s servers.
5. Sign Out and Sign In Again
- Sometimes your login session can become outdated.
- Log out of Webflow, clear your browser cache, and log in again to resolve sync or session issues.
6. Use the Latest Version of Chrome or Safari
- Webflow Designer works best in Google Chrome or Safari.
- Using outdated browsers or unsupported extensions may cause unexpected behavior.
Summary
To resolve read-only mode in Webflow, ensure you’re logged in with edit permissions, you're not in share-preview mode, no one else is actively editing the site, and your internet connection is stable. Refreshing your browser or re-logging in can often reset the editing state.