Which permission setting restricts modifications to files but allows reading and executing?

The permission setting that restricts modifications to files while still allowing reading and executing is the Read permission. When a user has the Read permission on a file, they can view the contents of the file and run it if it is an executable. However, they are not able to make any changes to the file; this means they cannot edit, delete, or rename it. This level of permission is useful in scenarios where you want users to access information without the risk of accidental alterations or deletions.

Other permission settings imply different levels of access: Write permission would allow users to modify the file, Modify includes both read and write capabilities, which means users can also change the file, and Full Control grants all permissions, enabling users to do anything allowed within the file system, including changes and deletions. Thus, Read is specifically designed to allow access without modification rights.