Free Protect PDF
Add real password protection to a PDF so it cannot be opened without the password. Encryption happens in your browser, the file is never uploaded.
Protect PDF
Add password protection to your PDF with strong encryption.
🔒 Files never leave your device — everything runs in your browser.
Lock a PDF With a Real Password
Fast, private and completely free.
Genuine Encryption
The password actually encrypts the file, it is not just a visual lock that can be bypassed.
Set Your Own Password
Choose whatever password you want, the file will not open without it.
Ready in Seconds
Protection is applied instantly, there is no waiting on a remote service to process the file.
Your File Never Leaves Your Browser
Encryption happens locally, the unprotected version of your PDF is never uploaded anywhere.
A Clear Warning About the Password
You are reminded to keep the password safe, since a lost password cannot be recovered.
Works on Any PDF
Protect a document of any length, from a single page to a lengthy report.
Protect Your PDF
Three simple steps.
Add Your PDF
Drop in the file you want to password protect.
Set a Password
Choose a password and confirm it.
Download the Protected File
Save a copy of the PDF that now requires the password to open.
When a PDF Actually Needs a Password
Not every document needs protection, but some clearly do, financial records, contracts, medical information or anything containing personal details you would not want opened by the wrong person if the file ended up somewhere it should not.
Adding a real password means the file cannot be opened at all without it, rather than relying on the recipient simply choosing not to look.
What to Consider Before Protecting a File
A few practical points worth keeping in mind:
- Choose a password the intended recipient can be told separately, not sent in the same email as the file
- Keep a record of the password yourself, since it cannot be recovered if lost
- Consider whether the recipient will need help opening a password protected PDF for the first time
Sharing the Password Safely
Protection only works if the password is not sitting right next to the file. Sending the PDF by email and the password by text message, or a separate call, keeps the protection meaningful rather than defeating the purpose the moment both arrive in the same inbox.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this actually encrypt the file, not just hide a viewer prompt?
Yes, the PDF is genuinely encrypted, it cannot be opened without the correct password.
What happens if I forget the password?
The password cannot be recovered, so it is important to keep a record of it somewhere safe.
Can I choose any password I want?
Yes, you set your own password when protecting the file.
Is my PDF uploaded to a server to add the password?
No, encryption happens entirely in your browser, the file is never uploaded anywhere.
Can I remove the password later if I no longer need it?
Yes, the Unlock PDF tool removes a password as long as you know what it currently is.
Will the protected PDF still open correctly for the recipient?
Yes, standard PDF readers will simply prompt for the password before opening the file.
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Ready to protect your PDF?
Add a real password in seconds, right in your browser. Free forever, no signup needed.