About this tool
Password protect or unlock a PDF online: add an AES-256 open password and optionally restrict printing, copying and editing, or enter the known password to save an unprotected copy. The PDF and passwords are processed in your browser and never uploaded.
Typical uses
- Add an open password before emailing a contract or payslip
- Save a copy without the password you type every time you open a work file
- Prevent printing or copying text when sharing a document
How to use
Upload a PDF and it is checked for encryption automatically. To add a password, set the open password, an optional permissions password and whether printing, copying and editing are allowed.
To remove a password, enter the current open password, then download the new PDF. Keep passwords safe: they cannot be recovered.
Up to 100 MB, encrypted with AES-256 using the qpdf engine. Files and passwords stay local. Permission restrictions depend on the reader honoring them; the tool does not crack or guess passwords, so only process files you are authorized to.
Frequently asked questions
Can I remove a forgotten password?
No. The tool needs the correct open password to remove protection and does not crack or guess passwords.
How strong is the encryption?
It uses AES-256, the strongest encryption in the PDF standard, which major readers such as Adobe Acrobat and web browsers open normally. Use a long password.
What is the permissions password for?
It controls restrictions such as printing, copying and editing; if left empty it matches the open password. Restrictions rely on the reader honoring them and cannot truly prevent copying.