4.4 When to Use Advanced Code Security Configuration Bits

In the context of embedded applications, it is recommended that the OTP ICSPDIS and SAFLOCK Configuration Bits of the microcontroller be programmed during the final phase of product development. It is strongly advised that these Configuration Bits not be programmed during the development or prototyping stages. Devices that have had the ICSPDIS Configuration bit enabled will permanently have their programming and debugging interface disabled, meaning that it will no longer be possible to reprogram or erase those devices ever again.

CAUTION: Use extreme caution with the ICSPDIS bit when using Microchip Technology's Quick Turn Programming (QTP) or Serialized Quick Turn Programming (SQTP) services. Devices that have had this Configuration bit enabled will permanently have their programming and debugging interface disabled, meaning that it will no longer be possible for those devices to be reprogrammed or erased ever again and will have extremely limited FA capability