Protect PDF with Password — Free Online
Add password protection and permission controls to your PDF. Uses 128-bit RC4 encryption.
Drag & drop here, or Tap to browse
Max 50 MB per file
Frequently Asked Questions
What encryption does this use?
We use 128-bit RC4 encryption following the PDF 1.4 Standard Security Handler specification, which is widely supported by all PDF readers.
What's the difference between Open and Owner password?
The Open password is required to view the PDF. The Owner password controls permissions (print, copy, edit) and is required to change them.
Can I recover the password if I forget it?
No. Make sure to save your password securely. We do not store any passwords.
Will the protected PDF work on all devices?
Yes. Password-protected PDFs work in Adobe Acrobat, Preview (Mac), browsers, and all standard PDF readers.
Is it really secure?
128-bit RC4 provides solid protection for most use cases. For maximum security, use strong passwords.
Is Minify Cloud PDF protect tool free?
Yes — Minify Cloud's PDF password protection tool is completely free online. Encrypt any PDF with a password instantly — no signup required.
What is a PDF passwordremover?
A PDF password remover (or PDF unlocker) removes password protection from PDFs. To lock a PDF with a password instead, use this Protect PDF tool.