Save [Word] Template As

Before posting here I searched the forum for answers that fit my situation but could not find a fit.
Found one that said "If you actually save it as a template, they can't save over the original" but when I entered data into the form fields of my template (only places data can be entered since it is protected), and selected save, save worked and I had a screwed up template.
Full explanation of my situation: I have a template. I want the protected document to only be saved (or quit) after opening. And, I want it to be saved as a .doc.
At the same time, I need a way to be able to re-save it as a template if it is found part of the form needs to be changed.
THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!!

Paul - You gave me help earlier. I had said something like I wanted it where data could be entered in a Form Field area
without a double click since double click was not always being remembered and the results were a mess and screwing everything up.
You responded with "There should be no need to double-click anything. Did you apply 'filling in forms' protection to the document?"
I did that and now setting the cursor in the uppermost form field, entering data, tab to next Form Field and so on allows one to fill in all Form Fields.
But the user can select "Save" and it saves it over the master.
Note I have it saved as a Macro Enabled Template, believing I am going to locate a macro that restricts any opening of the form to either "Close" or "Save As".
Thanks for your help

I am confused. I have sent 2 "Reply to thread" replies but neither can be seen here?
But - I will repeat in case I was doing something wrong.
Changed it to read only, it worked.
Am I right in the steps - to say make a change to that template:
1. Via Windows Explorer remove the read only, 2. Open and un-protect 3. Make change, 4. Protect, 5. Save as template 6. Close 7. Via Windows Explorer change to read only
Thanks