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Unlock PDF

Remove password protection from PDF

Click to upload a protected PDF

About PDF Unlock

PDF Unlock decrypts a password-protected PDF using the password you provide, via the @cantoo/pdf-lib library's standard PDF security handler entirely in your browser — your file is never uploaded to a server. It then re-saves the document without encryption, so the downloaded copy opens without a password.

How to use PDF Unlock

  1. 1Click the upload area and select a password-protected PDF file.
  2. 2Type the PDF's password into the field.
  3. 3Click 'Unlock PDF' to decrypt it.
  4. 4Click 'Download Unlocked PDF' to save the password-free result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PDF Unlock free to use?

Yes, it's free with no signup required.

Can this remove a real password from an encrypted PDF?

Yes — given the correct password, it decrypts the document's standard PDF encryption and re-saves it without protection.

What if I enter the wrong password?

Decryption fails and you'll see "Could not unlock PDF. Wrong password?" — double-check the password and try again.

Is my file uploaded to a server?

No, decryption happens entirely in your browser using the pdf-lib library.

Tips & Tricks

  • ✓You need the PDF's actual password (user or owner) — this tool removes protection, it doesn't crack or guess unknown passwords.
  • ✓If the PDF isn't password-protected at all, you can leave the password field blank and it will still process normally.
  • ✓Download and reopen the result to confirm it no longer prompts for a password.
  • ✓Keep your original protected file as a backup until you've confirmed the unlocked version looks correct.