Protect PDF
Add password protection to your PDF
Drop your PDF file here
or click to browse
Browser Processing
Files processed locally in your browser
Auto Delete
Files automatically deleted after processing
No Sign-Up
Use all tools without creating an account
Works Everywhere
Any device, any browser, no installation
How to Protect a PDF
Upload PDF
Select or drag your PDF file into the upload area.
Set Password
Enter a strong password to protect your document.
Apply
Click apply to encrypt your PDF with password protection.
Download
Download your password-protected PDF file.
Why Password Protect PDFs?
Password protection adds security to sensitive documents. Whether you're sharing confidential business files or personal documents, encryption ensures only authorized people can access your content.
When to Use Password Protection
- Confidential Business Documents: Contracts, financial reports, and HR files.
- Personal Information: Tax documents, medical records, and identification copies.
- Intellectual Property: Drafts, proposals, and proprietary information.
- Client Deliverables: Protect work until final payment or approval.
Permission Levels
Beyond passwords, you can restrict specific actions: disable printing to prevent physical copies, disable copying to protect text, or disable editing to preserve document integrity. Combine restrictions for maximum security.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add a password to a PDF?
Upload your PDF, enter a password, choose which permissions to allow (printing, copying, editing), and click "Protect PDF" to encrypt your document.
What is the difference between user and owner password?
The user password is required to open the PDF. The owner password (optional) controls permissions like printing and copying, even after the PDF is opened.
Is this tool free to use?
Yes, our PDF protection tool is completely free with no registration required.
What permissions can I restrict?
You can restrict printing, copying text/images, editing content, adding annotations, filling forms, and extracting pages.
How strong is the encryption?
We use 128-bit AES encryption, which is industry standard and provides strong protection for your documents.
Can I password protect multiple PDFs at once?
Currently, you can protect one PDF at a time. For multiple files, repeat the process for each document, or merge them first and protect the combined file.
What makes a strong PDF password?
Use at least 12 characters combining uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. Avoid dictionary words and personal information.
Can I remove the password later?
Yes, if you know the password, use our Unlock PDF tool to remove protection. Without the password, the encryption cannot be bypassed.
Will recipients need special software to open it?
No, any standard PDF reader (Adobe Acrobat Reader, Preview, Chrome, Edge) can open password-protected PDFs. Recipients just need to enter the password.
Can I prevent printing but allow viewing?
Yes, you can set granular permissions. For example, allow viewing but disable printing, copying, and editing separately.