---
title: Locking Layers
description: Lock a layer so its contents can
---

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1. [SmartDraw Knowledge Base](https://support.smartdraw.com/?hsLang=en-us)
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3. [Layers](https://support.smartdraw.com/reference?hsLang=en-us#layers)

# Locking Layers

You can easily add layers to any visual to separate complexity and make it easier to edit sections of your diagram separately. This often makes sense for floor plans, HVAC diagrams, and electrical drawings.

[If you want to review how to add a layer, read this article.](https://support.smartdraw.com/add-layers?hsLang=en-us)

### Layer Properties

Layers have two properties: **Visible** and **Clickable**. If the **Visible** box for a layer is unchecked, then all objects in this layer do not show on the screen or print in the drawing. If the **Clickable** box is unchecked then, even if the objects show, they behave as if they are part of the drawing background; they cannot be moved, deleted or changed in any way. Layers that are not visible are also not clickable.

 

![](https://support.smartdraw.com/hubfs/Knowledge%20Base%20Import/17995075351956-3.png)

 

When a layer is visible, but not clickable, you can add symbols to it and see the new items you added, but you can't click on them. This means the layer is **locked**.  To be able to edit objects in a specific layer, enable the clickable function for that layer and unlock it.

You can modify layer properties at any time using the **Manage Layers** command under **Page**->**Layers.** 

![](https://support.smartdraw.com/hubfs/Knowledge%20Base%20Import/17995066370836-3.png)

 

You can toggle locking and unlocking a layer using the "Clickable" property.

![](https://support.smartdraw.com/hubfs/Knowledge%20Base%20Import/17995075352212-3.png)

 

 

 

 

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