Protect PDF with a Password
Keep sensitive documents private. This tool encrypts your PDF with AES-256 - the PDF 2.0 standard also used by Adobe Acrobat - so it can only be opened with the password you set. Encryption happens entirely in your browser, so the file and password never leave your device.
Part of PDF Management Tools
How to use Protect PDF
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Step 1
Upload the PDF you want to secure.
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Step 2
Enter a password and type it again to confirm it.
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Step 3
Encrypt the file and download the protected PDF.
Instructions
- Accepted files
- PDF - one file at a time.
- Tip
- Keep a copy of your original file. Tools always create a new file and never overwrite the original.
Common uses
- Emailing payslips, bank statements or medical records
- Sharing confidential business documents
- Storing personal documents in the cloud
Protect PDF - Frequently Asked Questions
How secure is the protection?
The PDF is encrypted with AES-256 using the PDF 2.0 standard security handler (the same method Adobe Acrobat calls AES-256). The encryption itself is strong, but the protection is only as good as your password: short or common passwords can be guessed by password-cracking software. Use a long, unique password.
What if I forget the password?
It can't be recovered - not by us or anyone else, because we never see your file or password. Keep the password somewhere safe, such as a password manager.
Can I stop people printing or copying the file?
No. This tool protects the file from being opened without the password. Anyone who has the password can open, print and copy it. PDF 'permission' restrictions are not enforced by many apps, so we don't offer them as a security feature.
Which apps can open the protected PDF?
Any up-to-date PDF reader that supports AES-256, including Adobe Acrobat Reader (version X or newer), Chrome, Edge, Firefox, macOS Preview and most mobile PDF apps.
Can I protect a PDF that's already encrypted or digitally signed?
No. Remove the existing protection first. Digitally signed PDFs are refused, because encrypting them would invalidate the signature.
Is this tool free to use?
Yes. PDF App Tools is free for everyone, with no mandatory account and no payment required.
Are my files uploaded to a server?
No. Protect PDF runs entirely in your web browser. Your files are never uploaded to our servers and nothing is kept after you close the page.
Which devices and browsers are supported?
Any up-to-date browser such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari, on Windows, macOS, Android or iPhone. Very large files use more memory, so they may be slow on older phones.