Protect PDF
Encrypt a PDF with a password (AES-256) and decide whether printing and copying are allowed.
About Protect PDF
Protect PDF encrypts a PDF with a password using AES-256, and lets you decide whether printing and copying text are allowed.
Anyone who wants to open the file will need the password, so keep it somewhere safe.
When to use Protect PDF
- Send a contract, payslip or ID copy by email more safely.
- Share a document with only the people who know the password.
- Stop other people copying text or printing a file.
Tips for the best result
- Choose a long password that is not easy to guess.
- Send the password through a different channel from the file.
- If you forget the password we cannot recover it, so store it safely.
How to use Protect PDF online
- 1
Upload your file
Choose a PDF file or drag and drop it onto the page.
- 2
Choose your options
Adjust the settings if you need to, or keep the sensible defaults.
- 3
Run Protect PDF
Click the button and the file is processed on our secure server in seconds.
- 4
Download the result
Download your new file. Your upload and the result are deleted automatically afterwards.
Read the full guide: How to Password-Protect a PDF (Free, Online) →
Frequently asked questions
How strong is the protection?
The file is encrypted with AES-256, a widely used standard. Its real strength depends on your password, so choose a long, unique one.
Is Protect PDF free?
Yes. You can use Protect PDF on SnapPDF for free, without creating an account. Paid plans only raise the limits for heavy use.
How do I use Protect PDF?
1. Upload your file. 2. Choose your options. 3. Run Protect PDF. 4. Download the result.
Are my files safe?
Yes. Files are sent over HTTPS, stored encrypted, visible only to you, and deleted automatically after processing. We never sell your files or use them to train AI.
Do I need to install any software?
No. Protect PDF works in any modern browser on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iPhone.
Which file types are supported?
Protect PDF accepts PDF files.
What else can I do with SnapPDF?
SnapPDF has more pdf security tools and many others to merge, split, compress, convert, edit and secure PDFs.