Do I need the password to unlock a PDF?

Yes. You must know the password that was used to protect the PDF. This tool removes the protection by decrypting with the correct password: it does not crack or bypass passwords.

What encryption types are supported?

The tool supports standard PDF password protection including RC4 and AES encryption commonly used by PDF editors and Adobe Acrobat.

Are my files uploaded to a server?

No. The decryption happens entirely in your browser using pdf-lib. Your PDF and password never leave your device.

Can this tool crack a PDF password?

No. You must know the correct password. This tool decrypts the file with the password you provide. It does not brute-force or bypass password protection.

Is the unlocked PDF identical to the original?

Yes. The content, formatting, and pages are exactly the same. The only difference is that the password protection is removed.

Unlock PDF Online: Remove Password Protection Free

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How it works

Upload your protected PDF

Drop the password-protected PDF onto the upload area.

Enter the password

Type the password that was used to protect the PDF.

Download unlocked PDF

Click Unlock PDF and download a copy without password protection.

Frequently asked questions

PDF4.dev API

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