Protect PDF online free

Password-protect a PDF online — free, no signup. Files never uploaded

1 Add file
2 Set password & permissions
3 Protect & download

Drop a PDF here to protect

or click to select — free, in your browser

PDF only · No account · Files stay on your device

How it works

How to password protect a PDF

Encrypt a PDF with a password — free in your browser. Choose RC4 128-bit or AES-256. Print and copy/edit restrictions are optional and off by default.

Recipients need the password to open the file in standard PDF readers.

Add your PDF to Protect PDF.
Set and confirm a strong password.
Pick RC4 128-bit (compatible) or AES-256 (stronger). Optionally restrict printing or copying/editing.
Click Protect PDF and store the password safely before sharing.

Why browser processing & tips

Why process PDFs in your browser?

Most PDF sites upload your file to a remote server first. That adds wait time, queueing, and means your document passes through infrastructure you do not control. LokaPDF encrypts PDFs locally entirely in your browser — file content is not uploaded to our servers. Passwords are not stored by LokaPDF — if you forget, they cannot be recovered. The tool works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iPhone, and Android with no install.

Send contracts, financial statements, or personal records with an extra open password.

Tips

RC4 128-bit is widely compatible; AES-256 for stronger security.
Leave permission checkboxes off for password-only protection.
Save the password in a manager — we cannot reset it.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is Protect PDF free with password encryption?

Yes — add a password and optional print/copy restrictions free with no account. Choose RC4 128-bit or AES-256 before you download the secured PDF.

What encryption does password protect use?

RC4 128-bit (recommended for wide reader compatibility) or AES-256 (stronger). Both require the password to open the file in standard PDF readers. The library does not offer AES-128.

Can I block printing and copying?

Yes. Toggle Restrict printing and Restrict copying, editing & forms. The copy option also turns off annotations and content extraction in compliant PDF readers — not copy-to-clipboard alone. Both are off by default so you can password-protect without permission limits.

What if I forget the password?

Passwords cannot be recovered — LokaPDF does not store them. Save the password in a manager before sharing the protected PDF.

Can I password protect without restricting printing?

Yes. Leave print and copy restriction checkboxes off if you only need an open password without permission limits.

Does LokaPDF upload my file for Protect PDF?

No. LokaPDF processes your PDF locally in the browser — file content is not sent to our servers. Your document stays on your device, including on public or work networks.