PDF Password Protect
Add a password to a PDF so it can't be opened without it.
How to use the PDF Password Protect
- Upload the PDF you want to protect.
- Enter the password that will be required to open the file.
- Optionally enter a separate owner password that controls permissions such as printing and editing.
- Click Run and download the encrypted PDF. Keep the password somewhere safe.
How the PDF Password Protect works
PDF encryption uses two passwords. The user (open) password is needed to view the document at all; the content is encrypted with a key derived from it, so the file can't be read without it. The owner password grants full control and is used by PDF readers to enforce permissions. If you leave it blank, it's set to the same value as the open password.
The PDF is encrypted on our server using standard PDF security handlers supported by Adobe Acrobat, browsers and other readers, and the original file is discarded. There's no way to recover a forgotten password, so store it safely.
Frequently asked questions
- Is this PDF password protector free?
- Yes. Password-protect PDFs at no cost, with no account required.
- What's the difference between the two passwords?
- The password to open the file is required to view the PDF at all. The owner password additionally controls permissions like printing and editing. If you leave it blank, it defaults to the same as the open password.
- What if my PDF is already password protected?
- Unlock it first with the PDF Unlock tool, then protect it again with a new password.