Browse by category
Company

← PDF Tools

🔒

Protect PDF

Add password protection to your PDF. Encrypt it to prevent unauthorized access.

🔒
Click or drag a PDF here

What is this tool?

A PDF protection tool is a free online service that adds password security to any PDF document. Set an open password to restrict who can view the file, or set a permissions password to prevent printing, copying and editing — keeping your documents secure.

How to Use

1
Upload your PDFClick or drag and drop the PDF you want to protect.
2
Set your passwordEnter a password for opening the document (user password) and optionally a separate permissions password to restrict editing and printing.
3
Choose permissionsSelect which actions to allow or restrict: printing, copying text, editing, adding annotations and filling forms.
4
Download the protected PDFClick Protect and download your password-secured PDF.

Common Uses

🔒
Confidential Documents

Protect sensitive business documents, contracts and financial reports so only authorised recipients can open them.

📊
Reports

Prevent unauthorised printing and copying of proprietary reports and research.

🎓
Educational Content

Protect course materials and exam papers from being shared or edited without permission.

📜
Legal Documents

Restrict editing of signed contracts and legal agreements to preserve their integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of PDF password are there?

Two types: (1) Open/User password — required to open and view the PDF. (2) Permissions/Owner password — restricts what viewers can do (print, copy, edit) without knowing this password.

How strong should a PDF password be?

Use a password of 12+ characters with mixed case, numbers and symbols. PDF encryption (AES-256) is strong, but a weak password can be brute-forced.

Can a PDF password be removed?

PDF passwords can be removed using specialised software if the password is known. The PDF Unlock tool on FixForge removes passwords from PDFs you own.

What encryption does PDF use?

Modern PDFs use AES-128 or AES-256 bit encryption, which is the same standard used for government and military data protection when a strong password is used.