An embargo is when you delay publication of the full text of your thesis by up to 2 years. Note that with embargoed theses, while the full text is not publicly available, the bibliographic details (author, title and abstract) are discoverable and available to read. You must discuss these options with your supervisor. You request an embargo at the point of submitting the final version of your thesis to e-Prints.
A restriction is when your thesis is hidden entirely and is often requested if the thesis includes work which is politically, commercially or industrially sensitive. You are required to submit an application form to restrict your thesis.
For further information please see the postgraduate research webpage.