Guides
How to protect a PDF with a password
Add an open password to a PDF before sending it outside your team or storing it in a less trusted location.
Protect PDF when you need controlled access to the file. A password is useful for confidential attachments, internal approvals, and shared archives.
Best for
- Sending confidential PDFs by email
- Storing documents that should not open without approval
- Sharing a working copy with controlled access
How to do it
- Open Protect PDF and choose the file you want to secure.
- Enter the open password and confirm it carefully.
- Generate the protected PDF and test the password before distributing the file.
- Store the password separately and share it through a safer channel than the PDF itself.
Common questions
What happens if I forget the password?
You may lose access to that protected copy, so store the password safely before sharing the file.
Should I send the password in the same email?
Usually no. Share it through another channel when the document is sensitive.