Add AES-256 password protection to any PDF — opens with your password in Adobe Reader, Chrome, Safari, Preview. Runs entirely in your browser. No uploads.
No Upload
AES-256 Standard
Adobe Compatible
Instant
Password Protect PDF
Add AES-256 encryption — opens with password in Adobe Reader, Chrome, Preview
Select PDF File
Drop PDF here or click to select
PDF files only · Works with all PDF versions
Open Password (required to view)
Enter a password
Permission Restrictions (optional)
Prevent Printing
Prevent Copying
Prevent Editing
Read-Only Mode
Protected PDF uses standard AES-256 encryption compatible with Adobe Acrobat, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Preview (Mac), and all major PDF readers. Your file never leaves your browser.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Your PDF is processed entirely in your browser using PDF-lib, a JavaScript PDF library. The file never leaves your device. You can verify by turning off your internet after page load — the tool still works.
Yes. The output PDF uses standard AES-256 encryption (PDF 1.7 format) which is compatible with Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Reader, Chrome's built-in PDF viewer, Safari, Firefox PDF.js, macOS Preview, and virtually all modern PDF readers.
Yes. The tool will attempt to open the encrypted PDF (ignoring existing encryption if possible) and apply new protection. If the PDF has owner restrictions, you may need to provide the existing password first.
A User Password (Open Password) prevents opening the document without the password. An Owner Password restricts specific actions like printing, copying, and editing. Our tool sets both for maximum security.
There is no recovery mechanism. AES-256 encrypted PDFs are computationally impossible to brute-force with strong passwords. Always store your password securely in a password manager.