Password protect a PDF
Encrypt a PDF with a password so only the people you choose can open it. Set permissions for printing and copying too.
Runs in your browser — this file is never uploaded
How to password protect a PDF
- 1
Add your PDF
Drop in the document you want to lock. It stays on your device the whole time.
- 2
Choose a password
Type it twice, and decide whether people who open it may print, copy or edit.
- 3
Download the protected file
Anyone opening it will be asked for the password. Keep it safe — it cannot be recovered from the file.
Frequently asked
How strong is the encryption?+
AES-256 by default, the strongest the PDF format supports. AES-128 is offered for very old PDF readers.
Can I get the password back if I forget it?+
No. The password is not stored anywhere, including in the file, so keep it somewhere safe.
Is Protect PDF free to use?+
Yes. Protect PDF is free and unlimited, with no account and no watermark added to your document.
Are my files uploaded to a server?+
No. Protect PDF runs entirely inside your browser, so the document never leaves your device.
Which browsers does it work in?+
Any current version of Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari, on desktop, tablet and phone.