Password-protect a PDF
Add a real AES-256 password and restrict printing, copying or editing — all in your browser. The document you're protecting never leaves your device.
How to password-protect a PDF
- Add your PDF. Drop it above or click to browse.
- Set a password. An open password is needed to view the file; a permissions password lets people open it but blocks printing/copying/editing. Use either or both.
- Protect & download. The encrypted PDF downloads instantly and now requires the password everywhere.
Frequently asked questions
Is the encryption actually strong?
Yes — AES-256, the same standard desktop tools like Acrobat use. It's applied by qpdf, a trusted open-source PDF engine, compiled to run in your browser. Choose a strong password: the encryption is only as good as the password you pick.
Is my PDF uploaded?
No — and that matters most here. A document worth password-protecting shouldn't be handed to a stranger's server first. Everything happens on your device.
Open password vs permissions password?
The open password is required just to view the PDF. The permissions password leaves it viewable by anyone but locks printing, copying and editing until that password is supplied. Set one or both depending on what you need.
Can I remove a password later?
Yes — use the Unlock PDF tool with the password to produce an unprotected copy.
I forgot the password — can you recover it?
No. There's no backdoor — that's what makes the encryption trustworthy. Keep your password somewhere safe.