Protect PDF with Password - Secure, Client-Side Encryption
Lock your PDF with a strong password right in the browser. Encryption runs locally with no uploads, keeping contracts, reports, and designs private while you download a ready-to-share secured file.
Explanation
Dexify's Protect PDF tool encrypts PDFs fully inside your browser. Drop a PDF, set a password, and export a secured file without uploading anything to a server. The familiar Dexify layout keeps the flow simple: select, lock, download.
Encryption uses the PDF format's native password protection through pdf-lib, which is respected by popular readers like Acrobat, Preview, and modern browsers. Because processing is local, speed depends on your device rather than a shared queue, and sensitive documents never leave your machine.
Use the built-in generator for a strong password or paste your own. We surface file name, page count, and size so you know exactly what you're securing. If you need to remove a password later, pair this with the Unlock PDF tool for a reversible flow.
After download, share with confidence: teammates will be prompted for the password before viewing or printing. Combine with Compress PDF to shrink files before sending, or Add Watermark to layer branding without exposing your source files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are my PDFs uploaded anywhere?
No. Protection runs locally in your browser. Files and passwords are never sent to any server.
What encryption is used?
Native PDF password protection via pdf-lib, compatible with mainstream PDF readers and printers.
Can I remove the password later?
Yes. Open the file with your password using Dexify's Unlock PDF tool to create an unprotected copy.
What size files are supported?
Roughly 100 MB per file, depending on your device memory. Larger files may be slower to process.
Does this change permissions?
Standard password protection restricts viewing without the password; additional permission flags vary by reader.
Will this add watermarks?
No. The tool never adds watermarks or branding to your document.
Does it work offline?
Yes. After the page and libraries load, protection works offline in your browser.
How do I keep passwords strong?
Use 12+ characters with symbols. The generator produces a random, mixed-case password you can copy instantly.
How do I reduce file size?
Run the PDF through Compress PDF first, then protect it. Smaller files lock faster and are easier to share.
Use Cases
- Secure contracts, SOWs, and proposals before sending to clients.
- Protect board decks and financial reports shared with limited teams.
- Lock design specs, PDFs of mockups, and research summaries.
- Gate classroom handouts or exams with a password before distribution.
- Send vendor onboarding packets or HR policies without exposing edits.
Key Features
- Client-side encryption keeps sensitive PDFs private and responsive.
- One-click password generator plus copy helper for faster sharing.
- Status chips for file name, page count, and size before locking.
- Instant download of the protected PDF with your chosen filename.
- Works offline after load; no queues, uploads, or server waits.
- Compatible with Acrobat, Preview, Chrome, Edge, and other PDF readers.
- Pairs with Unlock PDF, Compress PDF, and Add Watermark for full workflows.
- Clean Dexify UI for consistent experience across tools.