Password Protect PDF

Zavy PDF Protect adds AES-256 encryption to your PDF. Set a user password that recipients must enter to open the document, and an optional owner password that restricts printing, editing, and copying. Share sensitive documents with confidence.

How it works

1

Upload your PDF

Select the file to protect.

2

Set user password

Required to open the document.

3

Set owner password

Optional — restricts editing and copying.

4

Download

Save the encrypted, password-protected PDF.

Common use cases

Protect salary slips
Secure legal contracts
Lock financial reports
Restrict client deliverables
Protect exam papers
Secure personal documents

Frequently asked questions

What encryption standard is used?

AES-256 — the same standard used by banks and government agencies. Compliant with PDF 1.6+ standard.

What is the difference between user and owner passwords?

The user password is required to open the PDF. The owner password restricts permissions like printing, copying, and editing — it can be set separately.

Can I remove the password later?

Yes — upload the protected PDF to the Protect tool, enter the current password, and save without a new password to unlock it.

What if I forget the password?

AES-256 encrypted PDFs cannot be recovered without the password. Store it securely.

Password Protect PDF

Lock your PDF with a password

Start for free

No credit card · Browser-based