Protect PDF Files from Unauthorized Access
Protect a PDF from falling into the wrong hands by limiting access to only authorized users. Use passwords to protect sensitive information and intellectual property.
Drag and drop your files here
Powered by PandaDoc
How to password protect a PDF for free
1. Upload the file
Drag and drop the document you want to lock with a password onto the editing panel. Alternatively, you can upload it from your device’s storage.
2. Set a password
Select your preferred password for encrypting PDF files and the system will apply the password protection.
3. Save the file and start sharing
After adding the encryption protocol to your PDF, you can save it to your device before sharing it with those allowed to view it.
Power up with eSignatures
Get access to legally binding eSignatures for your PDFs. Send documents to your recipients, then track their status throughout the signing process.
Try PandaDoc Free eSign
We offer must-have features for locking PDF files
Lock a file instantly
Our PDF platform comes with encryption tools that enable you to lock a PDF in a few clicks. Team members can use this tool to speed up communication and collaboration while maintaining airtight security.
Secure your files with passwords
We recognize the importance of protecting your sensitive data. So, we’ve made it possible for our users to encrypt PDF with password.
Get affordable security
We believe that protecting PDF files with password should not consume much of your budget. That’s why we’ve decided to provide free encryption services for individuals and businesses. You can enjoy free PDF encryption for any document you have.
Stay compliant
Our PDF lock feature abides by industry regulations as well as regional and international compliance standards. We also follow data governance laws in different locales.
Enjoy cross-platform protection
Using our PDF file locker helps you avoid all compatibility issues because it is web-based. Regardless of your device’s operating system, you can rely on our PDF platform to encrypt PDF files.
Need more PDF tools?
We provide tools for splitting, merging, and eSigning PDFs for free. Upload your files and get results in seconds.
Merge PDF files
Combine two or more files into one to make them easier to access as a single document.
Split PDFs
Divide your files into two or more documents for easier sharing.
Compress files
Compress your files to reduce their size and save storage space.
Convert PDF to JPG
Transform your PDFs to JPGs with our web-based converter.
eSign documents
Sign your documents with our legally-binding software solution.
Convert Word to PDF
Change your Word documents to PDFs to give them consistent formatting.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to secure a PDF?
The best way to secure a document is by using a password. When you add password to PDF, only users with the code can open it or make changes. Other ways to protect PDF include user authentication, role restrictions, and links that will expire after a certain time or date.
How do I make a PDF protected?
You can protect a document by adding a password, watermark, or expiration date. When you learn how to protect a PDF file, you will be able to store and share documents internally and externally without worrying about security.
Can you protect a PDF from being shared?
Yes, you can prevent a file from being shared by adding restrictions. If you want to protect a PDF document, consider using tools like SecureDocSharing to send files via customizable links. This will help you ensure that only authorized email contacts can view or share the file.
Are my files safe when I share them online?
Yes, your documents are safe when you share them. We employ multiple encryption protocols to secure PDF file transfers. As an extra measure, we also delete your files from our servers after you download the protected file.
What if I forget my password?
Once you learn how to put a password on PDF, you will also quickly figure out how to remove the passwords for easy sharing. With our PDFplatform, you can unlock your files easily in seconds.
How much does it cost to secure my PDF?
With PDFplatform, you can protect your files for free. We offer premium protection for your sensitive data from unauthorized users.