Microsoft Office apps like Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access include a feature to export a document as a PDF file with the option to encrypt the document using a robust 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) password, which should be more than enough to keep content secure. Using this feature, you can add a password for existing PDF documents or export Word documents as PDFs with the same protection. In this guide, you will learn the steps to secure a PDF file with a password using Microsoft Word.

Create password for PDF file with Microsoft Word

To password protect a PDF document with Word on Windows 11 or 10, use these steps: Once you complete the steps, the PDF viewer application will require a password to open and make the content readable when opening the PDF document.

Although this guide only shows the process using Word, you can use the instructions to protect Excel, PowerPoint, and Access documents. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.