Password-protect a PDF
Encrypt a PDF (AES-256) with an open password and printing or copying restrictions.
Processed in your browserFree
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About this tool
Protect a confidential document with an open password and, if needed, an owner password that controls printing, copying, editing and annotations. AES-256 encryption (or AES-128 for older readers) is performed by qpdf, compiled to WebAssembly, without the file ever leaving your browser.
How to use this tool
- 1Drop your PDF.
- 2Enter an open password and, if needed, an owner password; choose the permissions.
- 3Protect, then download the encrypted PDF.
Limits to know
- Restrictions (printing, copying...) depend on the goodwill of the PDF reader: only the open password guarantees confidentiality.
- A forgotten password cannot be recovered by AVEROPDF or by anyone else: keep it somewhere safe.
- AES-256 requires a reader compatible with PDF 1.7 (all recent readers).
- Accepted formats
- Maximum size
- 100 MB
Privacy and file processing
Encryption is handled by qpdf (WebAssembly) directly in your browser: neither the file nor the password is ever transmitted.
Read our privacy policyFrequently asked questions
The open password is required to read the document. The owner password allows the restrictions (printing, copying...) to be lifted; if left empty, it takes the value of the open password.