How to password protect a PDF (free)
Sharing something sensitive? Adding a password with strong 256-bit AES encryption means only people you give the password to can open the PDF — free, with no software to install.
Open the free Protect tool →Step by step
- Open the free Protect tool and drop in your PDF.
- Type the password you want to lock it with.
- Click ‘Protect PDF’ and download the encrypted file — it will now ask for that password to open.
Tips
- Choose a strong password and share it separately from the file (not in the same email).
- To remove a password later, use the Unlock PDF tool with the password you set.
- Files are deleted right after processing, so your document and password aren't stored.
FAQ
How strong is the protection?
256-bit AES encryption — the standard used for sensitive documents.
Can I remove the password later?
Yes — use Unlock PDF with the password you set.
Is it free?
Yes — free, no signup and no watermark.