Add Password to PDF Files
Add a password to a PDF using AES-256 encryption, so only people who know the password can open it.
Upload OR Drag Files
Support for PDF
or click here and press Ctrl+V / ⌘+V to paste a file
Completed!
Your File is Ready to Download.
Privacy Guaranteed
Your files are processed securely and this download link will expire automatically after a few days.
Share this File
Discover More
Explore Other PDF Tools
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
Professional PDF Utility
From the Blog
Related Blogs
How to Password-Protect a PDF for Free
Add a password to a PDF for free in under a minute using a browser tool. Also covers removing a password you already know.
How to Unlock a PDF and Remove a Password
Remove a PDF password for free if you know it, plus the honest truth about what to do if you genuinely forgot it.
Add a Password to Your PDF File
Encrypt a PDF so only people who know the password can open it.
Upload Your PDF
Choose one or more PDF files you want to encrypt.
Set a Password
Type the password you want to protect the file with. This is the password anyone will need to open it.
Download the Protected File
We encrypt your PDF with AES-256 and give you the protected file, ready to download.
Built for Real Encryption, Not Just a Lock Icon
Everything you need to keep a sensitive PDF private.
AES-256 Encryption
Your PDF is encrypted using AES-256, the same standard used to secure sensitive financial and legal documents, not a cosmetic viewer-level lock.
Fast, Server-Side Processing
Encryption happens on our servers in seconds, so there's nothing to install and no waiting on your device.
You Choose the Password
Set any password you like, at least 4 characters. We don't store it, so only people you share it with can open the file.
Unlimited Usage
No file limits and no subscriptions. Protect as many PDFs as you need at no cost.
Batch Protection
Protect several PDFs with the same password in one session, and download all the results together in a zip file.
Cross-Platform
Works in any modern browser on Windows, Mac, Linux, and mobile devices, with no software to install.
Who Protects PDFs
Common reasons people encrypt a PDF before sharing it.
Accountants
Fatima emails tax documents and financial statements to clients and wants each file locked with its own password.
HR Managers
Carlos needs to send an employee's offer letter and personal details in a PDF that only that employee can open.
Freelancers
Ana sends signed contracts to clients and wants a password on the file before it goes out over email.
Frequently Asked Questions
What encryption does Protect PDF use?
Your PDF is encrypted with AES-256, an industry-standard encryption algorithm used to secure sensitive financial and legal documents.
Can I remove the password later?
Yes. Use our Unlock PDF tool with the same password to remove protection whenever you need to.
What happens if I forget the password?
We don't store your password, so if you forget it, the file cannot be recovered by us or anyone else. Keep it somewhere safe.
Is my file kept private?
Yes. Uploaded files are processed automatically and removed from our servers shortly after. We never share or inspect your documents.
Is there a minimum password length?
Yes, your password must be at least 4 characters. For stronger protection, we recommend using a longer password that mixes letters, numbers, and symbols.
Can I protect more than one PDF at a time?
Yes. Upload multiple files in one session and set one password to apply to all of them, then download the results as a single zip file.
Is Protect PDF free to use?
Yes. There is no cost, no subscription, and no account required. Protect as many files as you need.
Can I protect a PDF from my phone?
Yes, the tool is fully responsive and works in any modern mobile browser on iOS and Android.