Protect a PDF: Passwords vs Permissions (What to Use and When)
Published: 2026-02-16
Use an open password when the content must not be readable without authorization. Use permissions when you want to discourage printing/copying/editing, but keep viewing easy.
Tools: Protect PDF and (authorized) Unlock PDF. Related: unlock workflow.
Q&A
An open password blocks viewing the PDF without the password. Permissions allow viewing but restrict actions like printing, copying, or editing.
They’re helpful for discouraging casual editing/printing, but they shouldn’t be treated as a guaranteed barrier against copying in all situations.
Usually at the end, after removing pages, merging/splitting, and compressing. Protecting early can complicate later editing steps.
If you’re authorized and have the password, yes—unlock it for editing, then protect it again after changes.
No. Protection controls access/permissions; compression is what reduces file size.