Optimize & secure
Password protect a PDF — free
Add a password so only the right people can open your PDF. Real PDF Editor encrypts the file in your browser, so your document and password are never uploaded — free, with no account.
100% free · no sign-up · files never leave your device
Real encryption, set by you
Adding a password actually encrypts the PDF, so it can't be opened without the password you choose — useful for tax forms, payslips, or anything you're emailing. Pick a strong password and share it through a separate channel for the best protection.
Password protect a PDF on Mac or Windows, without Adobe
No Adobe Acrobat subscription and no install. The encryption happens in your browser, so it works the same on a Mac, a Windows PC, or a phone — free, and your password and file never leave the device.
How it works
- 1
Open the PDF
Launch the editor and open the document you want to protect.
- 2
Open Protect
Go to Tools → Protect.
- 3
Set a password
Enter the password that will be required to open the PDF.
- 4
Download
Apply and download the encrypted, password-protected PDF.
Why use Real PDF Editor
- Encrypts the PDF with a password you set
- Done in your browser — nothing uploaded
- Free with no watermark or account
- Works on any modern browser
Frequently asked
How do I password protect a PDF?
Open your PDF in Real PDF Editor, go to Tools → Protect, enter a password, and download. The file is encrypted in your browser so it requires that password to open.
How do I add a password to a PDF for free?
Protecting a PDF is free with no watermark and no account. Your password and document never leave your device.
How do I password protect a PDF without Adobe?
Real PDF Editor encrypts PDFs in the browser for free — no Adobe Acrobat or install is needed.
How do I password protect a PDF on a Mac?
Open the editor in any Mac browser, go to Tools → Protect, set a password, and download the encrypted PDF — there's nothing Mac-specific to install.
Can I password protect a PDF online for free?
Yes. The Protect tool adds a password at no cost and runs entirely in your browser, so the file is never uploaded.
Is my PDF uploaded when I add a password?
No. Encryption happens locally in your browser, keeping the file and password private.