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Password protect a PDF, free

Lock a PDF with a password, so only people who know it can open the file. You can also block printing, copying or editing.

  1. 1Choose file
  2. 2Set options
  3. 3Download

Drop your PDF here

PDF → protected PDF · up to 100 MB

Choose file You can also paste a file or screenshot with Ctrl+V.

    AI assistant

    Add a PDF above to ask questions about it, summarise it or give it a better name.

    Protect PDF in 3 easy steps

    1. Choose your file (PDF → protected PDF): drop it on this page or click “Choose file”.
    2. Check the options (smart suggestions can set them for you), then click “Protect PDF”.
    3. Download the result. Everything runs in your browser, so your files are never uploaded.

    Why use GrovePDF

    • Free, with no signup, no watermark and no daily limit.
    • Private: your files are processed on your device, never on a server.
    • AI built in: smart suggestions and an assistant that answers questions about your PDF.
    • Works on any device with a modern browser, in nearly 110 languages.

    Updated · GrovePDF team

    How to add a password to a PDF

    1. Choose your PDF.
    2. Type a password twice.
    3. Optionally, also prevent printing, copying text and images, or editing and filling in.
    4. Click Protect PDF and download the locked file.

    How strong is it?

    The file is encrypted with AES-256, the strongest standard PDF encryption, which every current PDF reader supports. Without the password, the content can't be read. Because the protection happens in your browser, your unprotected document is never uploaded anywhere.

    Choosing a good password

    • Use at least 12 characters, or a few unrelated words.
    • Send the password by a different channel than the file, for example by text message when you email the PDF.
    • Keep it safe: a forgotten password can't be recovered by anyone.

    About printing and copying restrictions

    Most readers respect them, but some programs ignore them. For real protection, rely on the password that opens the file. Need to take a password off again later? Use Unlock PDF with the password.

    More: How to password-protect a PDF.

    Protect PDF: questions and answers

    How strong is the protection?

    The PDF is encrypted with AES-256, the strongest standard PDF encryption, supported by all current PDF readers.

    What if I forget the password?

    It can't be recovered, by us or anyone else. Keep an unprotected copy or store the password safely.

    Do the restrictions always work?

    Most readers respect them, but some programs ignore them. Use a password to open the file for real protection.

    Can I password protect a PDF on my phone?

    Yes. Protect PDF works in your phone's browser, with nothing to install.

    Guide: PDF security: protect, unlock and redact