Password-protect PDF

Password-protect your PDF: it’s saved encrypted, and only someone who knows the password can open it – in Acrobat, a web browser or on a phone.

  • End-to-end encrypted
    only you can see what’s inside
  • Deleted after 1 hour
    from your last edit
  • Free, no cookies
    no sign-up

Drag and drop a PDF here

or

Select PDF to protect

Up to 100 MB · opens instantly

How it works

  1. 1

    Open your PDF

    Drag the document into the window.

  2. 2

    Enter a password

    In the download window, “Password-protect” is already checked – just type the password twice.

  3. 3

    Download

    Save the encrypted PDF and send the password to the recipient another way, such as by text message.

What it can do

AES-256 encryption

The strongest encryption the PDF format supports.

Only you know the password

We never send your password anywhere – the file is encrypted in your browser.

Edit before saving

Before you protect the PDF, you can edit it, sign it or remove pages.

Password removal

Open a password-protected PDF and save it without the password – as long as you know it.

Frequently asked questions

How strong is the encryption?

We use AES-256, the strongest encryption available in the PDF format. Security mostly depends on the password, though – use at least 10 characters and don’t use it anywhere else.

What if I forget the password?

Then nobody can open the file – not even us. Store the password somewhere safe, or keep a copy of the PDF without a password.

How do I remove the password from a PDF?

Open the PDF in the editor, enter the password and download it with “Password-protect” unchecked. You’ll find a guide on the Unlock PDF page.

Can the recipient open a password-protected PDF on a phone?

Yes. AES-256 encryption is supported by all common PDF viewers, including those on phones.

Who can see my document?

Only you and anyone you send the link to. The document is edited in your browser and only ever reaches our server encrypted. The copy deletes itself one hour after your last edit. Learn more in our privacy policy.