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Password Protect PDF

Protect your PDFs online for privacy, security, and peace of mind—free and fast. Add strong encryption to any PDF directly in your browser. No software downloads, no account required.

  • AES 128-bit encryption
  • Files deleted after 1 hour
  • TLS-secured transfers
Reliable password protection for PDF documents
Reliable PDF Password Protection
Securely share your sensitive information by encrypting your files and requiring a password for access. This is the most effective way to prevent unauthorized viewing of confidential data.
Secure PDF protection with files deleted after one hour
No Data Retention
Your files are always safe with Smallpdf. We use TLS encryption for all data transfers and permanently delete files after one hour. We never save your document passwords.
Password protect PDF on Mac, Windows and Linux
Works on Mac, Windows, and Linux
Smallpdf is a web application accessible on any device with a browser, including Mac, Windows, Linux, and mobile devices. Open your browser and add a password to your PDF from anywhere — no software required.
AES 128-bit encryption securing a password-protected PDF
Secure Encryption for Maximum Safety
Some PDF passwords can be cracked easily. With our AES 128-bit encryption, it would take thousands of years to break your password using a standard computer.
Strong password tips for protecting a PDF
Password Strength for Added Security
The more complex your password, the safer your file. We recommend using a non-dictionary word of at least 7 characters with numbers, capital letters, and symbols.
Password protect a PDF in the cloud with no software
Password Protection in the Cloud
No software installation needed. Protect your PDF with a password by uploading it, choosing a strong password, and downloading the secured file — all in your browser.
Adding password protection to a PDF document online

How To Password Protect a PDF Document:

  1. Import or drag & drop your file to our Protect PDF tool.
  2. Type and confirm the strong password you’d like to use.
  3. Click “Protect” to add the password to your PDF.
  4. Edit the PDF with our other tools if desired.
  5. Download your password-protected PDF when ready—done!
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4.2 / 5 - 13,565 votes