How to Create a Password-Protected Google Site with Apps Script

Creating a password-protected Google Site is a great way to secure your content. With Google Apps Script, you can easily add a password layer to your site. This guide will walk you through the process step by step. Let’s get started!

Why Password Protect a Google Site?

Google Sites is a free tool to create websites. But it lacks built-in password protection. If you want to restrict access, Google Apps Script is the solution. It allows you to add custom functionality, like a password system.

Steps to Create a Password-Protected Google Site

1. Create a Google Site

First, create your Google Site. Go to Google Sites and click “Create.” Design your site as needed. Add pages, text, images, and other content.

2. Open Google Apps Script

Once your site is ready, open Google Apps Script. Go to Google Apps Script and start a new project. This is where you’ll write the code for password protection.

3. Write the Password Protection Code

In the Apps Script editor, write the following code:

function doGet(e) {
  var password = e.parameter.password;
  var correctPassword = "YourPassword123"; // Change this to your desired password

  if (password === correctPassword) {
    return HtmlService.createHtmlOutputFromFile('Welcome');
  } else {
    return HtmlService.createHtmlOutputFromFile('Login');
  }
}

This code checks if the entered password matches the correct password. If it does, the user sees the “Welcome” page. If not, they see the “Login” page.

4. Create HTML Files

Next, create two HTML files in Apps Script:

Login.html: This file will contain the password form.
Welcome.html: This file will show the protected content.

Here’s an example of Login.html:

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
  <body>
    <h2>Enter Password</h2>
    <form>
      <input type="password" name="password" placeholder="Password" required>
      <button type="submit">Submit</button>
    </form>
  </body>
</html>

And for Welcome.html:

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
  <body>
    <h2>Welcome!</h2>
    <p>You have successfully accessed the protected content.</p>
  </body>
</html>

5. Deploy the Script as a Web App

After writing the code, deploy the script as a web app. Click “Deploy” > “New deployment.” Select “Web app” and set the following:

Execute as: Me
Who has access: Anyone

Click “Deploy” and copy the web app URL.

6. Embed the Web App in Your Google Site

Go back to your Google Site. Add an “Embed” element to your page. Paste the web app URL into the embed box. This will display the password form on your site.

7. Test Your Password Protection

Open your Google Site and test the password protection. Enter the correct password to access the protected content. If the password is wrong, the login form will reappear.

Tips for Better Security

Use a Strong Password: Choose a complex password with letters, numbers, and symbols.
Change the Password Regularly: Update your password periodically to enhance security.
Limit Access: Share the password only with trusted users.

Benefits of Using Google Apps Script for Password Protection

Customizable: You can modify the script to fit your needs.
Free: Google Apps Script is free to use.
Easy to Implement: No advanced coding skills are required.

Common Issues and Fixes

Password Not Working: Double-check the password in the script and ensure it matches.
Embed Not Displaying: Make sure the web app URL is correctly embedded in your Google Site.
Access Denied: Ensure the web app is set to “Anyone” access.

Conclusion

Creating a password-protected Google Site with Google Apps Script is simple and effective. Follow the steps above to secure your site. Use a strong password and test the system thoroughly. This method is perfect for protecting sensitive information or restricting access to specific users.

By using Google Apps Script, you can add custom features to your Google Site. It’s a powerful tool for enhancing functionality and security. Start building your password-protected site today!

Important Notes:

Always keep your password secure.
Regularly update your script and test for errors.
Use this method for small-scale projects. For larger sites, consider professional tools.

By following this guide, you can create a password-protected Google Site with ease. Happy coding!