Is Protect PDF free to use?

Yes. Everything runs right in your browser and is free for everyone - no subscription, no credits, no hidden fees. The page is supported by ads shown only to anonymous visitors.

Are my file and password uploaded to a server?

No. Both the file and the password stay on your device - nothing is uploaded. The encryption happens locally in your browser.

Do I need an account to protect a PDF?

No. The tool works for guests right away: pick or drop a PDF, set the options and download the result. No registration or login is required.

What encryption is used?

256-bit AES - the strongest encryption the PDF format supports. The result is a standard protected PDF that opens in Adobe Acrobat, browsers and mobile readers; they simply ask for the password.

Can the password be recovered if I lose it?

No. The password is not stored anywhere, so nobody, including us, can recover or reset it. Keep it safe - without it, the PDF cannot be opened.

Why do I need to enter the password twice?

The confirmation field protects against typos: if the passwords do not match, the protect button stays disabled. The eye toggle lets you check exactly what you typed.

Protect PDF with a password

Your file and your password stay on your device - nothing is uploaded.

Drop a PDF here or click to choose

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Protect PDF

How it works

Password protect PDF online free - set an open password on a document with no sign up and no upload. Anyone who receives the file has to type the password before it will display.

Drop a PDF onto the page.
Enter the password you want, then re-enter it in the confirmation field - use the eye toggle to check what you typed.
Save that password somewhere safe before you go any further. Nobody, including us, can recover or reset it.
Press “Protect PDF” - the file is encrypted with 256-bit AES right on your device.
Download the protected PDF. From then on, opening it in any reader requires the password.