Full AES Encryption
Desktop PDF Champ uses proper encryption — not possible reliably in browsers.
Protect PDF with Password
PDF password encryption requires desktop software — browser tools cannot reliably encrypt files.
Password-protect your PDF
For reliable AES encryption, use PDF Champ desktop (Windows or Mac).
Browser-based PDF password encryption is not currently supported. For reliable protection, use PDF Champ desktop software (Windows or Mac). Get PDF Champ desktop.
Protect a PDF in 3 Steps (Desktop)
Reliable password encryption with PDF Champ desktop software.
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Step 1
Download PDF Champ
Get the Windows or Mac desktop app from pdfchamp.com.
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Step 2
Set a Password
Open your PDF and choose encryption with a strong open password.
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Step 3
Save Protected PDF
Save the password-protected file securely on your computer.
Why Use Desktop for PDF Protection
Browser tools cannot match full encryption — here is what desktop offers.
Open & Permission Passwords
Set passwords for opening and restrict printing or copying.
Reliable Results
Encrypted files open correctly in Adobe Reader and all major viewers.
Batch Protection
Password-protect multiple PDFs at once on desktop.
Windows & Mac
Native desktop apps for both platforms.
Free Trial Available
Try PDF Champ desktop before you buy.
Pair with Unlock Tool
Use our online Unlock PDF tool when you know the password.
Other Tools Stay Online
Merge, split, compress and more work free in your browser.
How to password-protect a PDF
- Download PDF Champ — Get the Windows or Mac desktop app from pdfchamp.com.
- Open your PDF — Launch PDF Champ and open the file you want to protect.
- Set a password — Choose encryption and enter a strong open password.
- Save — Save the password-protected PDF securely.
Frequently asked questions
Why is browser protection not available?
Our browser PDF library cannot reliably encrypt files. Desktop PDF Champ uses full encryption support.
What if I forget the password?
Passwords cannot be recovered. Store it safely or use our Unlock tool if you know it.
Is this the same as a digital signature?
No. This adds open-password encryption, not a legal digital certificate.
PDF Champ — Online & Desktop
Choose Your PDF Champ Experience
Free browser tools for everyday tasks, or download the full desktop suite for advanced PDF power on Windows and Mac.
Live · Free
Online PDF Champ
20+ free PDF tools in your browser — no install, no upload. Files never leave your device.
- 100% browser processing
- Chrome, Firefox, Edge & Safari
- No account required
- Works offline after first load
Desktop · Windows
PDF Champ for Windows
Complete desktop PDF suite — merge, split, lock, unlock, convert, compress, rotate, crop, watermark & sign.
- Windows 7+ (64-bit)
- Batch processing & encryption
- Commercial & personal use
- Free trial available
Desktop · Mac
PDF Champ for Mac
Native macOS app with the same powerful PDF tools and a smooth, integrated desktop experience.
- Designed for macOS
- Merge, split, convert & secure
- Full offline processing
- Free trial available