Protect PDF

Add or remove a PDF password with strong AES encryption — free and fully in your browser.

Drop a PDF here
or click to choose a file
Select PDF
Files are processed on your device and never uploaded.
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How to password-protect or unlock a PDF

Add a password to keep a PDF private, or remove a password you already know — all with this free protect PDF tool. It uses strong AES-256 encryption (via qpdf) running entirely in your browser, so your file and password never leave your device.

  1. Choose Protect to add a password, or Unlock to remove one.
  2. Select your PDF and enter the password.
  3. Click the button to download the protected or unlocked file.

Frequently asked questions

What encryption is used?

Adding a password uses AES-256 encryption, which is effectively uncrackable with a strong password.

Can you remove a password I don't know?

No. To unlock a PDF you must know its current password; this tool removes a password you already have, it does not break encryption.

Are my files or passwords uploaded?

No. Everything happens in your browser, so your PDF and password stay on your device.

100% private — no uploads.