Protect a PDF

Vellum encrypts a PDF document with a password, following the AES-256 standard, and shows the strength of the chosen password in real time as you type. Once protected, the file no longer opens without that password. The encryption is computed in your browser: neither the document nor the password is sent to a server.

What level of encryption does Vellum use to protect a PDF?

Vellum encrypts the document with a password using the AES-256 standard, a robust, widely used encryption method. An indicator shows the strength of the chosen password in real time as you type.

Are the password and document sent to a server?

No, encryption is computed directly in your browser: neither the file nor the password ever leaves your device. It is free and requires no account.

What happens if I forget the password I set with Vellum?

The protected file can no longer be opened without that password, and since Vellum keeps no copy of it, there is no way to retrieve it afterwards. Note it down carefully before closing the tab.

Vellum — free PDF tools whose processing stays on your device.