Is my PDF uploaded to a server?

No. All processing is performed locally in your browser using the pdf-lib library. Your file and password never leave your device.

What types of PDF passwords can this remove?

This tool removes the user (open) password from PDFs encrypted with 128-bit RC4 or AES — the most common protection formats. Owner-only restrictions without an open password are handled automatically without requiring a password.

What if I enter the wrong password?

pdf-lib will throw a decryption error. You will see an inline error message. Double-check the password and try again.

Can this crack an unknown password?

No. This tool only removes protection when you supply the correct password. It does not perform brute-force or dictionary attacks.

Is there a file size limit?

There is no server-side limit since all processing is local. Very large files (100 MB+) may take a few seconds depending on your device.

Will the unlocked PDF look identical to the original?

Yes. Only the encryption wrapper is removed. All content, images, fonts, and formatting are preserved exactly.

PDF Unlock

Name: PDF Unlock
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Upload a password-protected PDF, enter the password, and download an unlocked copy — everything runs in your browser.

Unlock Settings

Click or drag a PDF here

Password-protected PDFs only

PDF Password (required to open the file)

Leave blank if the PDF only has owner restrictions (no open password).

File Status

No PDF loaded

Upload a password-protected PDF on the left to begin

Summary

Upload a password-protected PDF, enter the password, and download an unlocked copy — everything runs in your browser.

How it works

Click or drag a password-protected PDF into the upload area.
Enter the password required to open the file.
Click "Unlock and Download" to process the PDF in your browser.
The unlocked PDF is saved directly to your device.
Keep the original file until you confirm the unlocked copy opens correctly.

Use cases

Removing an open password from a PDF you own.
Unlocking old archived PDFs whose passwords you still know.
Stripping password protection before printing or annotating.
Preparing secured PDFs for merging or splitting with other tools.
Recovering access to documents after password managers sync issues.
Batch-preparing encrypted PDFs for long-term archival storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-06-25 · Reviewed by Nham Vu