Protect PDF
Add password protection to a PDF file. Secure your documents with encryption.
Drag & drop your PDF here
or click to browse — max 50MB
Note: This applies basic PDF password protection via pdf-lib. For bank-grade encryption, use a dedicated server-side solution.
How to Protect PDF
- 1Upload the PDF file you want to protect by dragging it into the upload area or clicking to browse.
- 2Enter a strong password and confirm it in the second field to prevent typos.
- 3Click "Protect PDF" and download your password-protected PDF instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What password strength should I use?
Use a minimum of 10 characters combining uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid obvious choices like your name, "1234," or the document title. A password manager can generate and store a strong random password for you.
Can I use any password characters?
Yes. Any combination of letters, numbers, and symbols is supported. Longer passwords with mixed character types provide stronger protection.
What happens if I forget the password?
There is no password recovery option for encrypted PDFs. If you lose the password, the file cannot be opened. Store your password in a secure location — a password manager is ideal — before sharing the protected PDF.
Are my files sent to a server during protection?
No. All processing happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your PDF and your password never leave your device. This is especially important for sensitive documents like contracts or financial records.
Can I remove the password later?
Yes. Use the Unlock PDF tool on this site. Upload the protected PDF and enter the correct password to remove the protection and download an unlocked copy.
How should I share the password with the recipient?
Never send the password in the same email as the protected PDF. Share the password through a different channel — a phone call, text message, or encrypted messaging app — so that both pieces are not intercepted together.
Want a deeper guide? Read our PDF and Image guides →