Protect & Unlock PDF
Add a password to a PDF with AES-256 encryption, optionally restrict printing, copying and editing, or remove a password you know.
Drop your PDF here
or choose one from your computer or phone
Your file and password are processed in your browser and never uploaded.
How to protect or unlock a PDF
Open the PDF
Drop the file onto the page. Deskbox shows whether it's already protected and switches to Unlock if it is.
Set or enter the password
To protect, type the password twice and choose any restrictions. To unlock, enter the password that opens the file, or its owner password.
Download
Press the button and download the protected or unlocked copy. Your original isn't changed.
Strong encryption, in your browser
Protected files use AES-256, the encryption of the PDF 2.0 standard, and the password never leaves your device. Choose a long password: anyone who has it can open the file, and there's no way to recover a forgotten one.
Restrictions and the owner password
Restrictions ask PDF viewers not to allow printing, copying or editing. Most viewers respect them, but they aren't as strong as the password that opens the file. The owner password lets you lift them later; leave it empty and a random one that nobody knows is used.
Frequently asked questions
Can Deskbox remove a password I don't know?
No. Unlocking needs the password that opens the file, or its owner password. Deskbox doesn't guess or crack passwords.
Is my password or PDF sent anywhere?
No. Encryption and decryption run in your browser. Neither the file nor the password is uploaded or stored.
Which apps can open the protected file?
Adobe Acrobat and Reader X or later and the PDF viewers built into Chrome, Edge and Firefox open it, as do most current PDF apps. Very old PDF software may not.