I have just finished my database (I think) minus some reports but how do I restrict direct data entry to tables and prevent users from modifiying the form.. data modification in the form would be fine though

password protection would be ok.

I would also like the form to open up on database opening

its a common request and a bit baffling that MS hasn't made it simpler to enact;

in a form's property you will find:
allowedits
allowadditions
allowdeletes

these are properties you need to turn true/false.... how you implement it is situational...but you might want a table of users with a permission code...and then have them log in...and depending on who it is then when the form opens in the OnOpen event you can put those parameters to false...

if you are not comfortable with any vba - and if you want to instead make different FEs for different people - then in the different FEs you could permanently make those changes...

as for not allowing them into form Design View - you will want to remove that tool bar ; if you are designing Access you should have a text book of the version you use - available at any big book store or Amazon - - and any decent text book will have that instruction.....