Password Protect a PDF - Lock Your PDF for Free
Add a password to any PDF so only the right people can open it. Control who can print, copy, or edit the file. Runs in your browser. Your file never leaves your device.
Add a password to any PDF so only the right people can open it. Set access controls, choose what people can do with the file, and download your protected PDF in seconds. Your file never leaves your browser.
What is Protect PDF?
Protect your PDF files with a password so only the people you share the password with can open them. Set a password before sending a contract, report, or any sensitive document. When someone tries to open the protected PDF, their PDF reader will ask for the password first.
You can also control what people are allowed to do with the file once they open it. Turn off printing, copying text, or editing so the document stays exactly as you sent it.
Choose between two levels of protection. The standard option works with a wider range of older PDF readers. The stronger option is the better choice for sensitive or confidential files.
Everything happens right in your browser. Your file is never uploaded to any server. Add the password, click Protect, and download the locked file in seconds.
Powerful Features
Everything you need in one amazing tool
Password Lock
Lock your PDF with a password. Anyone who tries to open it will need to enter the password first.
Two-Level Protection
Set one password to open the file and a separate one to change settings. You control both.
Restrict Printing and Copying
Stop people from printing, copying text, or editing your document even after they open it.
Works in All PDF Readers
Protected PDFs open in Adobe Reader, Chrome, Firefox, macOS Preview, and all mobile PDF apps.
Private by Design
Your file never leaves your browser. No uploads, no servers, no accounts needed.
Done in Seconds
Upload, set a password, click Protect. Your locked PDF is ready to download right away.
How It Works
Get started in 4 easy steps
Upload Your PDF
Click or drag your PDF file into the upload area.
Set a Password
Type the password people will need to open the file. Add an optional owner password for extra control.
Choose Permissions
Decide if people can print, copy, or edit the document after opening it.
Download Protected PDF
Click Protect PDF and your password-locked file downloads right away.
Why Choose Our Protect PDF?
Stand out from the competition
Strong Protection
Industry-standard password protection keeps your documents safe from unauthorized access.
Completely Private
Your file never leaves your device. No cloud uploads, no accounts, no data collection.
Full Permission Control
Choose exactly what people can do with your file: print, copy, edit, or view only.
Works Everywhere
Protected PDFs open in every PDF reader that supports password-protected files.
Instant and Free
No sign-up, no waiting. Your protected PDF is ready to download in seconds.
Nothing to Install
Works directly in your browser. No apps, no software, no extensions needed.
Perfect For
See how others are using this tool
Confidential Reports
Password-protect financial or strategy reports before emailing to stakeholders.
Client Deliverables
Protect deliverables so only clients with the password can open them.
Exam Papers
Lock exam PDFs to prevent early access. Share the password separately.
Personal Documents
Protect scanned IDs, certificates, and personal records stored in cloud storage.
Intellectual Property
Password-protect proprietary design documents or tech specs before sharing with contractors.
Board Documents
Secure board meeting packs and financial disclosures before distributing to directors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Protect PDF
The stronger option (256-bit) is recommended for sensitive documents. The standard option (128-bit) works with a wider range of older PDF readers. If in doubt, go with the stronger option.
The open password is what someone needs to view the file. The owner password controls settings like printing, copying, and editing. You can set both or just the open password.
Yes. Use our Unlock PDF tool with the correct password to remove protection and get an open copy of the file.
No. Everything happens in your browser. Your file and password never leave your device.
You need to unlock it first using our Unlock PDF tool, then apply a new password.
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