Protect PDF

Encrypt your PDF with a password to restrict access.

Protect PDF encrypts a PDF with a password using AES-256 — the output file cannot be opened without the password, and you can additionally restrict printing, copying and editing.

— Guide

How to password-protect a PDF

  1. Step 1

    Upload your PDF

    Drag and drop the PDF you want to lock, or click to browse.

  2. Step 2

    Set a password

    Choose a strong password and, optionally, restrict printing, copying and editing.

  3. Step 3

    Encrypt

    The document is encrypted with AES-256, the standard used for sensitive business documents.

  4. Step 4

    Download

    Download the protected PDF. Anyone opening it will need the password.

— When to use it

Made for moments like these

Confidential sends

Password-protect contracts, payslips or medical documents before emailing them, and share the password separately.

Controlled distribution

Let people read a document but restrict printing, copying and editing.

Storage hygiene

Keep sensitive PDFs encrypted at rest in shared drives and inboxes.

— FAQ

Protect PDF — frequently asked questions

How strong is the encryption?

PDFs are encrypted with AES-256, the same standard used for banking and government documents.

Can I stop people from copying or printing my PDF?

Yes. Besides the open password, you can restrict printing, copying and editing permissions.

What happens if I forget the password?

There is no backdoor — keep the password safe. If you own the document and know the password, you can remove it with the Unlock tool.

Is my password stored?

No. The password is used to encrypt your document and is not kept after the job completes. The file itself is deleted from our servers within 24 hours.

Is protecting a PDF free?

Yes — encryption is free with no watermarks and no account required.