Protect a PDF with a password
Encrypt your PDF so only people with the password can open it. The file and the password stay on your device, because encryption runs in your browser.
How to password-protect a PDF
- Choose your PDF
Drop the file above or select it from your device.
- Set a password
Type a password of at least 4 characters and repeat it.
- Choose permissions
Decide whether people who open it can print, copy text or edit.
- Download
Click Protect PDF to save the encrypted copy. Keep the password safe, because it can’t be recovered.
Your files never leave your device
Most online PDF services upload your documents to their servers. PDFellow does the work right here in your browser, so your file is never sent anywhere. It’s free, there’s no signup, and you can use it as often as you like.
Frequently asked questions
How strong is the encryption?
PDFellow uses AES-256, the strongest encryption the PDF format supports, through the open-source qpdf library.
Is my password sent anywhere?
No. The password and the PDF never leave your browser.
What if I forget the password?
It can’t be recovered or reset, so store it somewhere safe before you share the file.