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FreeToolConvert

PDF Password Protector

Add a password to a PDF with AES-256 encryption, and choose whether printing and copying are allowed. Encryption happens in your browser.

In-browser by default PDF → PDF

Standard mode runs in your browser with no upload. High-fidelity mode uploads the file for processing on our server; our copies are deleted within 1 hour(s).

To password-protect a PDF, choose the file, enter and confirm a password, choose whether to allow printing and copying, and select Protect PDF. Anyone opening the file will need the password.

How to use the PDF Password Protector

  1. 1

    Choose your PDF

    Up to 50 MB.

  2. 2

    Set a password

    At least 4 characters; longer is safer.

  3. 3

    Choose permissions

    Allow or block printing and copying text.

  4. 4

    Protect and download

    Store the password safely — it can’t be recovered.

How it works

The PDF is encrypted with AES-256, the strongest standard PDF encryption, using your password. A separate random owner password controls the permissions. Everything happens in your browser. Server mode (Ghostscript, 128-bit) is available as an alternative.

Features

  • AES-256 encryption

    Supported by all modern PDF readers.

  • Permission control

    Allow or block printing and copying.

  • Private

    Your file and password stay on your device.

When to use it

  • Emailing payslips, ID copies or medical reports.
  • Sharing contracts that only the recipient should open.
  • Storing sensitive scans on shared drives.

Privacy and file handling

Where it runs
In your browser, optional server mode
Retention
Uploaded and converted files are deleted automatically within 1 hour(s).
File size limit
50 MB per file
Cost
Standard mode is free and unlimited. Server mode: 3 free a day, then 1 credit(s) each.

Standard mode runs in your browser with no upload. High-fidelity mode uploads the file for processing on our server; our copies are deleted within 1 hour(s).

Limitations

  • If you forget the password, the file cannot be opened — keep a copy of the original.
  • Permission restrictions depend on the reader app respecting them.
  • Very old PDF readers may not support AES-256; use server mode for maximum compatibility.

Troubleshooting

“This PDF already has a password”
Unlock it first with PDF Unlocker, then protect it with a new password.
An old reader can’t open it
Use server mode (128-bit encryption), or update the reader.

Frequently asked questions

How secure is the password protection?

Files are encrypted with AES-256. With a long, unique password this is very strong.

What happens if I forget the password?

The file can’t be opened. We never see or store your password, so we can’t recover it.

Can I stop people from printing the PDF?

Yes — untick “Allow printing”. Most readers honour this setting.

Is my PDF uploaded?

Not in the default mode; encryption runs in your browser.

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