FilePDQProtect PDFFREE
Add a password to a PDF with strong AES-256 encryption, and optionally block printing or copying.
- 1 Add
- 2 Convert
- 3 Download
Drop a PDF here
PDF. Up to 200 MB.
Stays on your device
Your file
Done
These files were skipped. Everything else is ready below.
Kept only on this device. If a download is interrupted, reopen this page within an hour and choose Continue.
- If you forget the password, the file can’t be opened. Nobody, including us, can recover it.
- Printing and copying limits are honoured by most PDF apps, but not all.
Questions about Protect PDF
Is Protect PDF free?
Yes. It is free to use, with no sign-up, no watermark and no limit on how often.
Are my files uploaded?
No. It runs in your browser, so your files stay on your device and are never sent to us or anyone else. Privacy notice
Which files can I use?
PDF in, PDF out. Up to 200 MB per file, 50 files at a time, 2,000 pages.
Step-by-step guide: How to password-protect a PDF
Step by step, and if something goes wrong
Steps
- Add a PDF.
- Type a password of at least 6 characters, then type it again to confirm.
- Optionally limit printing, copying or editing, and set a separate owner password for those limits.
- Select Protect PDF and download the locked copy.
If something goes wrong
- The password can’t be recovered by anyone, including us. Store it somewhere safe before you share the file.
- The file is encrypted with AES-256, which current PDF readers support.
- Printing and copying limits rely on the reader respecting them; the open password is what keeps the content private.
- A file that already has a password must be unlocked first.