The PDF format is known for its protective features, such as restricted access and edit and hiding certain data from readers. These features make PDFs very secure and allow users to control who can access and/or edit their files. Of course, many other features secure PDF content. But, that’s another story.
Due to being highly secure, many companies and freelancers use PDF files instead of Word documents for their business. Nonetheless, using this format requires special programs for viewing and editing PDF files, such as Adobe Reader or Adobe Acrobat.
As can be noticed, PDFs are indeed great and secure to work with. However, nothing is secure enough, especially when dealing with sensitive data. Therefore, you need to encrypt your files to ensure their maximum security.
But, how can you do that if you aren’t a tech-savvy? You don’t need any knowledge, apart from basic computer skills, to encrypt your PDFs. All you need is a good PDF password protection tool.
These tools are usually software or apps that help you manage and encrypt your
PDF files with ease. Moreover, they let you apply permissions to your files to prevent their editing, copying, or printing. In other words, these programs do everything for you. All you need to do is choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Having in mind that there are plenty of these tools on the market, it may be hard for you to make up your mind. To help you out make the right choice, here we list the top 9 free PDF password protection tools. So, let’s check them out!
10 Best PDF Password Protection Tools
This software is perfect for all those who work with sensitive data and want to protect their PDFs without much hassle. It’s number one because that’s Adobe who invented the PDF format, and it’s not free but offers a free trial. It’s easy to use and accessible on any device.
With Adobe Acrobat DC you can restrict access to your files so no one can edit, copy, scan, or print them. To protect them, you only need to open them and set a password.
The character and the work done by this tool speak for itself. GorillaPDF is a silent and strong PDF converter you can use to convert your files and documents to PDF. It’s complemented with a tool that will password protect your PDFs with a strong 256-bit AES encryption. All you need is to open the file, enter your password, and protect it.
GorillaPDF is 100% free and online. You can protect your PDF files on desktop, mobile, or tablet as long as you’re connected to the Internet.