PDF Protect
Browser-based PDF encryption isn't possible here. See why, and get links to free tools that can add a password.
How to use PDF Protect
Browser-based PDF encryption isn't possible — the library this site runs on doesn't support it, and doing it properly needs server-side processing.
- Upload your PDF and type the password you want to set.
- This tool prepares the file but can't actually encrypt it in your browser.
- Use one of the linked free tools (SmallPDF, iLovePDF) to add real password protection.
Frequently asked questions
Does clicking "Protect PDF" actually add a password to my file?
No — pdf-lib, the library this tool runs on, can't perform PDF encryption in the browser, so the downloaded file is just re-saved without any password. The tool explains this and links to free tools (SmallPDF, iLovePDF, LibreOffice) that can actually encrypt it.
Why do I need to type a password if it isn't used?
The password field only gates the "Protect PDF" button (it stays disabled until you enter something) — the text you type is never applied to or stored in the output file.
Why can't this be done entirely in the browser?
Real PDF password encryption needs to write an encryption dictionary into the file's internal structure, which pdf-lib doesn't implement client-side — that step normally needs server-side processing or a dedicated desktop tool.
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