Password-protect a PDF so readers need a password to open it, with optional limits on printing, copying, editing, forms, and comments.
Set an open password, an optional owner (admin) password for changing security settings, then download the protected file — all in your browser.
How to password-protect a PDF
- Drop a PDF into PDFPeach.
- Enter an open password (required to encrypt the file).
- Optionally set a different owner password and toggle reader permissions.
- Download the protected PDF.
Why protect PDFs with PDFPeach
Emailing an open PDF is easy to forward. An open password raises the bar for casual access without installing desktop software or sending the file to a cloud converter.
Your document and passwords stay on your device. The tool is free and needs no account.
When to protect a PDF
- Sharing contracts, offer letters, or payroll summaries
- Sending drafts that should not be casually opened on a shared machine
- Limiting printing or editing as a soft deterrent
- Packaging a final packet before you archive or hand it off
Open vs owner password
The open password is required to open the file. The owner (admin) password can change security settings later. If you leave the owner password blank, it defaults to the same value as the open password.
Permission options
You can allow or disallow printing, copying text, modifying the document, filling forms, and commenting. Treat these as a deterrent: some PDF readers ignore permission settings even when a password is present.
Tips
Extremely large files may take longer or fail in a memory-limited browser tab. Always store your passwords somewhere safe — PDFPeach cannot recover a forgotten password.
Frequently asked questions
What is the admin password?
The owner password can change security settings. Leave it blank to reuse the open password.
Will every PDF reader enforce permissions?
No. Some readers ignore permission settings. Rely on the open password for access control; treat other limits as a soft deterrent.
Can I remove the password later?
Yes, if you still know the password — use Unlock PDF on PDFPeach to download a copy you are authorized to open.
Are my files uploaded?
No. Protection runs entirely in your browser on PDFPeach — free, with no account required.
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