Protect PDF Online for Free
Add a password to a PDF — no upload, no signup, up to 100 MB.
Your file never leaves your deviceDrag & drop your PDF here
or Max 100 MB · Free · Processed entirely in your browserHow to Protect a PDF
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Upload your PDF Drag & drop or browse your PDF.
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Set a password Choose a password and pick what's allowed — printing, copying, editing.
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Download Save your password-protected PDF instantly.
Real encryption, not a paywall trick
- Private by designYour PDF and password are processed on your device and never uploaded.
- InstantNo upload queue — your browser does the work locally.
- Free, no signupNo account, no credit card, no trial that expires.
- AES-256 encryptionThe PDF 2.0 standard, the same algorithm banks and governments rely on.
- Granular permissionsSeparately control printing, copying, and editing on the protected file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free?
Yes. No signup required.
Is my file safe?
Yes — your PDF is processed entirely in your browser and never uploaded.
What encryption does this use?
AES-256 by default — the PDF 2.0 standard. You can switch to RC4 128-bit for compatibility with older PDF readers, though RC4 is weaker and only recommended when you need that compatibility.
What's the difference between the password and permissions?
The password controls who can open the file at all. Permissions (printing, copying, editing) are honored by conforming readers but aren't unbreakable — they deter casual use, not determined attackers.
What if I forget my password?
We never see or store your password, so we can't recover it or your file. Keep it somewhere safe.
Will the protected PDF open in Adobe Acrobat and other readers?
Yes. It uses the standard PDF security handler that Acrobat, browser PDF viewers, and other conforming readers all support.
Max file size?
100 MB.