Adobe Reader Converts Dynamic Forms to Flat PDFs After Network Disruption

[Willis5F87]

Hello,

I’m experiencing a recurring issue with Adobe Reader that is significantly affecting my workflow. I use dynamic PDF forms with interactive features (e.g., JavaScript-driven fields, drop-downs, and expandable sections). However, whenever there is a network disruption while the form is open, Adobe Reader unexpectedly converts the form into a flat PDF—stripping away all interactivity and rendering it uneditable.

This behavior appears to happen without warning, and once flattened, the dynamic functionality is permanently lost. I’ve verified that this occurs across multiple workstations, with different versions of Adobe Reader DC, and even when the forms are hosted locally but accessed through shared network drives.

Can you please provide:

An explanation for why this flattening happens after a network interruption.

A way to prevent dynamic forms from being automatically flattened in such events.

Any recovery options or configurations (e.g., registry keys, preferences) that can help preserve form integrity during connection issues.

Note I can still open the flattened PDF file with adobe pro and the functionality is still there but adobe reader will no longer open it as a dynamic form.
I will upload a flattened file and the original that it was made from.

[JR Boulay]

[MOVED TO THE ACROBAT READER DISCUSSIONS]

[try67]

I can't access the files you've shared, but what you're describing is extremely unlikely. Reader can't flatten files on its own, and a network disruption is certainly not going to cause it to do so... There must be something else at play here.

First of all, are you sure the files have been flattened? Maybe just the fields highlighting has been disabled so you don't see their blue background? If the fields are editable in Acrobat they should also be editable in Reader...

[Willis5F87]

When the network disruption happens and I reopen my files, there is always an error that says that the dynamic form has been flattened, and to seek the help of the creator of the file. Adobe Pro has no trouble opening it with full features.

[try67]

Can you post a screenshot of this message, and share the files using some other means (like Google Drive)?

[Willis5F87]

The documents were going through a virus scan, but should be viewable and downloadable now. I have attached a screenshot of the error message.