Private and Secure
Only the data needed for encryption is uploaded, and the file is deleted immediately afterwards. Nothing is stored, logged, or shared.
Encrypt PDF Online Free
Add password protection to your PDF files with one click.
Drag your PDF here or click to browse files
Encryption runs on our server ยท Max file size 20MB
Why Choose Our PDF Encrypt Tool
Protecting confidential documents starts with setting a strong password.
Instant Results
No waiting in line. Set your password and the encrypted PDF is generated in seconds, ready to download.
Fine-Grained Permissions
Beyond the open password, you can independently restrict printing, copying, editing, and form filling to match your confidentiality needs.
Encrypt a PDF in Three Simple Steps
From start to download in under a minute.
Choose your PDF
Drag the PDF into the dashed box or click to browse local files. Maximum file size is 20MB.
Set your password
Enter an open password. To restrict printing or copying, also set a separate permissions password.
Download the result
Click Encrypt and the protected PDF starts downloading immediately. Remember to keep your password safe.
Online PDF Encrypt Tool - No Sign-Up Required
PDF Encrypt is a fully web-based tool that adds password protection to your PDF files. The file is uploaded to our server and processed with Python (pypdf) using the PDF Standard Security Handler, then deleted immediately after encryption. Nothing is stored, logged, or shared.
Contracts, quotes, resumes, transcripts - any file you do not want just anyone opening deserves a password lock. Set an open password and no one can view the content without it. Set a different permissions password and you can also stop others from printing, copying, or modifying your document.
Common Encryption Scenarios
- Secure business contracts - prevent unauthorized access to or tampering with key terms.
- Protect personal files - lock sensitive documents like resumes and scanned IDs.
- Control content permissions - let clients view a document without allowing them to print or copy it.
Why It's Better Than Desktop Software
- Works everywhere - no installation needed on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android.
- Deleted after use - your file is removed from the server the moment encryption finishes. Nothing is stored or logged.
- Standard encryption - uses standard PDF encryption so any PDF reader can recognize the password.
PDF Encrypt FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about encrypting PDF files online.
Is online PDF encryption really free?
Yes. The PDF encrypt tool is completely free with unlimited use, no watermark, and no sign-up. Encryption is processed on our server.
Are my files uploaded to a server?
Yes. Encryption requires server-side processing, so the PDF is temporarily uploaded. It is deleted immediately after encryption - nothing is kept, analyzed, or shared.
What is the difference between the open password and the permissions password?
The open password unlocks the document itself. The permissions password manages restrictions like printing, copying, and editing. If both passwords are the same, the permission restrictions do not apply and the document is only protected for opening.
Can an encrypted PDF still be opened with a normal PDF reader?
Yes. The encryption uses the standard PDF algorithm, so mainstream PDF readers on Windows, macOS, and mobile all recognize the password and open the file normally.
What if I forget the password?
Please save your password carefully. PDF encryption is one-way protection - if you forget the open password, no tool can recover the content without losing it.