Why You Can’t Always Convert a URL to PDF

Ever noticed that some web pages convert to PDF effortlessly while others refuse to cooperate?

It usually comes down to two things: local restrictions (like firewalls, browser settings, or network policies) and website limitations (where the site itself prevents printing or saving).

If you’re getting an error message, seeing a blank page instead of a proper PDF, or finding that the tool just doesn’t work, one of these is likely the culprit.

When a Firewall Blocks Online PDF Converters

If you're on a work, school, or public Wi-Fi network, a firewall might be stopping you from using online tools like our PDF Converter. Some networks block access to file conversion sites for security reasons, especially in managed environments.

If you can’t access Smallpdf or certain websites, there are a few things you can try.

Check if the Firewall Is the Issue

Open a private/incognito window or switch to mobile data on your phone to see if the site loads. If it works outside the network, the firewall is likely blocking it.

Request Temporary Access

If you're on a work or school network, ask IT if they can grant temporary access. Although we take security and privacy seriously, your company’s own security policy might still not allow this. If that’s the case, see if they’ll allow you to install Smallpdf’s desktop app for Windows, which lets you convert files offline and use other PDF tools without needing an internet connection.

Try a VPN (If Allowed)

If your network policy permits it, a VPN might let you bypass restrictions, but make sure it’s within the rules before using one.

When “Save as PDF” Is Disabled

Some browsers—especially on managed devices—have the “Save as PDF” option disabled. IT departments do this to prevent saving or sharing sensitive content outside the organization.

If you can’t find the option to save a page as a PDF, try these steps:

• Check system policies. If you're using a work or school device, certain settings might be locked. If possible, try using a personal device.
• Look at group policies. IT teams often enforce restrictions across entire organizations. If it’s work-related, they might approve an exception if you explain why you need it.
• Disable conflicting browser extensions. Some add-ons, like security or ad blockers, can interfere with built-in printing and saving options. Try turning them off temporarily.

If none of these work, you may need a workaround—keep reading for alternative ways to save a webpage.

When a Webpage Won’t Let You Print

Some websites prevent printing or saving their content on purpose, usually for copyright protection or security reasons. You might run into this with online forms, DRM-protected documents, or subscription-based content.

If printing or saving a page as a PDF isn’t working, it could be because:

• The website has disabled printing entirely.
• The document has read-only or DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection to stop users from saving copies.
• The page loads content dynamically (like a live dashboard), making it difficult to capture as a static PDF.

Alternative Ways to Save a Webpage as a PDF

If you can’t use the Save as PDF function—and can’t wait until you’re using your personal device—here are some other ways to get the job done:

• If the site allows downloads, save the webpage as an HTML file first, then open it in Word, Docs, Pages, or LibreOffice. Tidy up the formatting if necessary, then save it as a PDF.
• If you can select the text, paste it into a Word, Google Docs, or LibreOffice document, then save it as a PDF. Again, you might need to fix some formatting.
• If nothing else works, screenshots can capture the content exactly as it appears. Not ideal, but better than nothing!

If a work computer blocks you from saving a web page as a PDF, you can always try using your personal mobile device. Here’s how to do it on Android and iOS:

On Android (Chrome Browser)

1. Open the webpage in Chrome.
2. Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
3. Select Share > Print.
4. Choose “Save as PDF” from the dropdown at the top.
5. Tap “Save” and select where you want to store the file.

On iPhone (Safari Browser)

1. Open the webpage in Safari.
2. Tap the “Share” button (the square with an arrow pointing up).
3. Scroll down and select “Print.”
4. Tap the “Share” button again and select “Save to Files.”

As easy as that! And a useful way around workplace restrictions without breaking any rules.

Troubleshooting & What You Can Try Next

If you're still stuck, here are some other things to try.

If available, you could try switching to another browser. Sometimes, a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari) will have fewer restrictions in place. If you can’t switch browsers, try using another device, especially if it is a work laptop. Using your personal computer once you’re home, or using your mobile phone can work.

Of course, if you’re encountering these problems at work regularly, you might want to ask IT for help. If you're on a managed network, your IT team might have an approved way for you to save web content.

Finally, remember that once you save a web page as a PDF, you can still convert the PDF to Word so that you can fix formatting and layout issues, before converting it back to PDF.