Free PDF Password Protector
Lock any PDF with a password — real AES-256 encryption, in seconds.
Drop your PDF file here
or click to browse · encrypted locally, never uploaded
Go Pro
For freelancers and teams who send protected documents every day.
| Feature | Free | Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Files per run | 1 file | Unlimited batch |
| File size | Up to 20 MB | Unlimited |
| AES-256 password encryption | Yes | Yes |
| Permission controls (print / copy / modify) | Yes | Yes |
| Batch-protect a folder with one password policy | — | Yes |
| Ads | Shown on page | Ad-free |
| Updates | — | Lifetime free updates |
Frequently asked questions
Is my PDF uploaded to your servers?
No. Encryption happens entirely inside your browser using the open-source @cantoo/pdf-lib engine (a maintained fork of pdf-lib with real encryption support). The engine's library file loads from a public CDN (jsDelivr), but your PDF bytes and your password never leave your device — which is exactly what you want from a password tool.
What encryption does it use?
AES-256 (PDF 2.0 / ISO 32000-2, revision 6) — the same standard banks and governments use. The protected PDF opens in Adobe Reader, Preview, Chrome and any modern PDF viewer once the correct password is entered.
Can I remove the password later?
Yes: open the protected PDF anywhere, print or save an unprotected copy if you have the password, or re-run it through this tool after entering the current password and choosing new settings. Note the permission flags (print/copy/modify) are a polite request — some viewers ignore them.
What if I forget the password?
There is no recovery — we never see your password, so we cannot reset it. Store it in a password manager before downloading the protected file.
What if the engine cannot load?
The encryption engine loads from a CDN. If an ad blocker or firewall blocks third-party scripts — or you are offline — the engine cannot start. Allow scripts from cdn.jsdelivr.net for this page, or check your connection and reload.