It compiles and removes all of the source code from an MDB making all code and
code based objects locked restricting design view or changes. Many use these
for distribution as they don't allow users to tamper with or view the design of
these objects.
They can also provide a bit of a performance boost as it is impossible for
objects to become decompiled in an MDE.
The developer would always keep a copy of the original MDB to use for future
design changes.
It is a compile version of the database where the codes are already compiled
and the Text component of the codes is removed. Thus, it is not possible to
modify the design of the database. It also provides a small performance
boost since the codes have been compiled.
Developers use the MDE format to prevent users tampering with the design of
the database. However, the MDB format must be kept securely as changes to
the database design can only be done on the MDB file, NOT MDE.
