Password-protect a PDF

Lock a PDF with a password using strong AES-256 encryption. You can also stop others from printing, copying or editing it.

Free · no sign-up · no watermark

How to password-protect a PDF

  1. 1

    Upload your PDF

    Choose the document to protect.

  2. 2

    Set a password

    Optionally restrict printing, copying and editing.

  3. 3

    Download

    Only people with the password can open it.

Why PDFTEK for Protect PDF

  • AES-256 encryption
  • Restrict printing, copying and editing
  • Opens in any PDF reader with the password
  • No watermark

Price

Free without an account: 3 tasks a day (6 with a free account), files up to 20 MB.

See all plans →

Protect PDF: frequently asked questions

How strong is the protection?

PDFTEK uses AES-256, the strongest encryption in the PDF standard. Choose a long password: it can't be recovered if you forget it.

Can I remove the password later?

Yes, with the Unlock PDF tool, as long as you know the password.

Is it really free?

Yes. Free without an account: 3 tasks a day (6 with a free account), files up to 20 MB. No watermark is added. If you need more, a Day Pass is $1.99 for 24 hours and Pro is $5.99/month.

Is it safe to upload my files?

Files are sent over HTTPS and stored in your private workspace, never shared or used to train AI. Files from sessions without an account are deleted automatically after 24 hours, and you can delete any file yourself at any time.

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