Password protect a PDF
Lock your PDF with AES-256 encryption so only people with the password can open it.
or drop it here · paste with Ctrl+V
Processed on your device — files are never uploaded
to use this tool — every tool is free, with no daily limit.
Password Protect PDF: what you need to know
Before emailing payslips, medical records or contracts, adding a password means that only the intended person can read them. FilesForU encrypts the PDF with AES-256 — the strongest standard PDF encryption — directly in your browser.
You can also choose whether people who open it may print, copy text or make changes. Share the password separately, for example by phone or message.
Why use FilesForU for Password Protect PDF
Free, no watermark
Password Protect PDF is free with a free account — no daily limit and no watermark on your files.
Private
Your files are processed on your own device. They are never uploaded to our servers.
Fast
No upload and no queue, so most files are ready in seconds.
Works everywhere
Use it on Windows, Mac, Linux, iPhone or Android — nothing to install.
Password Protect PDF in 3 steps
- 1
Choose the PDF to protect
- 2
Enter a password twice and choose permissions
- 3
Protect and download the locked PDF
Questions & answers
How secure is AES-256?
AES-256 is the strongest encryption PDFs support and is used by banks and governments. A long password with mixed characters keeps it safe.
What if I forget the password?
It can't be recovered — not even by us, because we never see it. Keep a copy of the original file.
Do you see my password?
No. Encryption happens on your device; the password is never sent anywhere.
Are my files uploaded to your server?
No. This tool runs entirely inside your browser, so your files stay on your device. FilesForU never receives, stores or sees them.
Is it really free?
Yes. Every tool is free with a free account — no daily limit, no watermarks, and files up to 500 MB.