What is Protect PDF?
Protecting a PDF encrypts its contents so it can only be opened with a password.
How to use Protect PDF
- 1
Choose your PDF.
- 2
Enter and confirm the password, and set permissions if you want.
- 3
Click Protect PDF and download.
Features
- AES-256 encryption
- Optional owner password
- Printing, copying, editing and annotation permissions
- Runs locally with qpdf
Supported formats
Maximum file size: 200 MB per file.
Practical uses
- Send payslips or medical reports securely.
- Share contracts that only recipients can open.
- Restrict printing of drafts.
Limitations
- If you forget the password, the file can't be recovered.
- Permission restrictions are honored by most readers but aren't enforced by all software.
Frequently asked questions
How strong is the encryption?
AES-256, the strongest option in the PDF standard. Use a long, unique password.
