Encrypt PDF — Password Protect PDF Free, No Upload
Add strong AES-256 password protection to any PDF document — free, with no file upload to any server. Set a user password to control who can open the document, and an owner password to restrict editing, printing, and copying.
Uses AES-256 (PDF 2.0). Very old PDF readers may not open AES-256 files. Spelling of special characters matters — a lost password cannot be recovered.
Drop a PDF file here or click to select
Encrypting...
About Encrypt PDF
Password protection is the simplest way to keep a PDF confidential in transit. ILikePdf Encrypt PDF applies AES-256 encryption with a user password for opening and an optional owner password for restricting printing and copying. Both passwords can differ, giving you fine control over how the file is used. Encryption runs in the browser, meaning the unencrypted document never leaves your device. Keep your passwords safe — a forgotten password cannot be recovered.
How to encrypt a PDF Encrypt PDF
Common use cases for Encrypt PDF
- Protect confidential contracts before emailing them.
- Password-lock tax returns and financial statements.
- Secure employee records shared within HR workflows.
- Restrict copying of proprietary documents.
Pro tips
- If you forget the password, the file is unrecoverable — keep it safe.
- AES-256 is the strongest PDF encryption available today.
- Encryption happens in your browser; the decrypted file never leaves your device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Encrypt any PDF with a user password (to open) and an owner password (to restrict printing/editing). Completely free, no upload, no sign-up.
AES-256 encryption per the PDF 2.0 specification (ISO 32000-2). Encryption is applied entirely in your browser — files are never uploaded. Very old PDF viewers may not support AES-256.
Yes. Tick or untick the permissions checkboxes to control printing, copying text, and editing with the user password. An owner password can restore full control if the user password's restrictions are disabled.
Yes. Encryption happens entirely in your browser using a pure-JavaScript AES-256 implementation. Your document never reaches a server — you retain full control.
Yes. Use our "Remove Password" tool to decrypt a PDF if you know the owner password. This is useful when you need to remove restrictions from your own documents.