New
Sign PDF
Draw, type or upload your signature and place it anywhere on a PDF, plus dates and initials.
How it works
Protect PDF with a Password
Lock a PDF with a password using strong AES-256 encryption, and decide whether people can print, copy or edit it. Already protected? Remove the password you know in one step.
- 01
Drop in a PDF. The tool checks whether it's already protected.
- 02
Set and repeat a password and choose what people are allowed to do, or enter the current password to remove it.
- 03
Download the protected (or unlocked) PDF. Share the password separately from the file.
About this tool
Keep confidential PDFs private
Bank statements, contracts, payslips, medical records and HR documents are often shared by email or cloud links, which can be forwarded or left open. A password means only people you give it to can open the file.
This tool encrypts PDFs with AES-256, the strongest standard PDF encryption, using the open-source qpdf engine running in your browser. You can also restrict printing, copying and editing for people who open it. Restrictions are protected by a separate random owner password, so they can't simply be switched off. If you have a protected PDF and know its password, the Remove a password option saves an unlocked copy.
AES-256 encryption
The strongest encryption PDF supports, opened by any modern PDF reader.
Permission controls
Allow or block printing, copying and editing.
Remove a password
Unlock a PDF you know the password for, to stop typing it every time.
Done on your device
Your document and password never leave your browser.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How secure is the password protection?
AES-256 encryption is very strong; in practice the weak point is the password. Use at least 10 characters, ideally a passphrase of several words.
What if I forget the password?
It can't be recovered, by us or anyone else. Keep a copy of the original unprotected file somewhere safe.
Can I remove a password from a PDF?
Yes, if you know it. Choose Remove a password, enter the current password and download the unlocked copy. This tool can't break passwords you don't know.
Do permission restrictions really stop copying?
Most PDF readers respect them, but some apps ignore them. Treat print and copy restrictions as a deterrent; the open password is what truly protects the content.
Are my files uploaded anywhere?
No. This tool runs entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your files and text never leave your device, so it's safe for private or confidential work.
Missing something?
Tell us the tool you wish existed.
Instant.tools grows from real requests. Describe the task you're stuck on and we'll consider building it next.