PDF files are widely used to share important documents in a secure manner. However, if you forget the password of a locked PDF file or receive a password protected PDF from someone else, it can be quite frustrating. Fortunately, there are several methods available to remove password from a PDF file. In this blog post, we will discuss different methods to remove password from a PDF file along with their pros and cons.
We have compiled this blog post to help you remove password from a PDF file in an efficient manner. We will guide you through the methods to remove password on a PDF, explain why you can’t remove the password in certain cases, and provide recommendations and implications of these methods. Follow along to learn how to remove password from a PDF file!
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
In order to remove password from a PDF file, you’ll need the following:
- A computer or a mobile device with internet connection
- A web browser like Chrome or Firefox
- A PDF file with password protection
What Requires Your Focus?
Removing a password from a PDF file can be a time consuming task, requiring your complete attention. Be sure to follow the steps closely and in the correct order for the method you choose. Be aware of the potential drawbacks of each method listed below and choose the one that best meets your needs.
Different Methods to Remove Password on A Pdf
Method 1: Using Google Chrome
Google Chrome allows you to unlock a PDF file by removing its password protection. Here’s how to do it:
Steps:
- Open Google Chrome and drag the locked PDF file into the browser window.
- Enter the password to unlock the PDF file.
- Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the browser window and select "Print".
- In the print dialog box, click on "Change" under the Destination setting.
- Select "Save as PDF" from the list of options.
- Click on "Save" to save the unlocked PDF file to your computer.
Pros:
- Google Chrome is a widely used browser so this method is easily accessible.
- This method is free of cost.
Cons:
- You need to have the password to unlock the PDF file initially.
- This method doesn’t work in cases where printing a document has been restricted.
Method 2: Using Online Tools
There are several online tools available that allow you to remove password from a PDF file without downloading any software. Here’s how to do it:
Steps:
- Open a web browser and search for "Remove PDF password".
- Select an online tool that offers PDF password removal.
- Upload the locked PDF file to the tool.
- Enter the password to unlock the PDF file. If you don’t know the password then try the online tool’s password recovery feature.
- Click on "Unlock PDF" or "Remove Password" button after providing the correct password.
- Download the unlocked PDF file to your computer.
Pros:
- This method is widely available and free of cost.
- You don’t need to download any software to remove password from the PDF file.
Cons:
- Online tools may not be completely secure and could expose your PDF to potential threats.
- There may be restrictions on the file size that can be unlocked for free.
Method 3: Using Adobe Acrobat Pro
Adobe Acrobat Pro is a premium PDF editing tool that allows you to unlock a PDF file by removing its password protection. This requires you to purchase the software. Here’s how to do it:
Steps:
- Open Adobe Acrobat Pro and click on "File" in the top left corner of the screen.
- Select "Open" from the drop-down menu and choose the locked PDF file.
- Enter the password to unlock the PDF file.
- Click on "File" again and select "Export To" followed by "Microsoft Word".
- Choose a location to save the unlocked PDF file.
- Open the newly saved Word document and click on "File".
- Select "Save As" followed by "PDF" to save the unlocked PDF file to your computer.
Pros:
- Adobe Acrobat Pro provides a secure and reliable way to remove password from a PDF file.
- The software also offers a range of other features for PDF editing and creation.
Cons:
- Adobe Acrobat Pro is a premium software that requires you to purchase a license.
- It may take some time to learn how to use the software effectively.
Why Can’t I Remove Password on A Pdf?
Sometimes, removing the password on a PDF file might not be possible due to certain restrictions. Here are some reasons why you might not be able to remove password from a PDF file and potential solutions:
1. Permissions are Restricted: If the PDF file is restricted from printing, editing, or copying, then you won’t be able to remove the password.
Fix: Check the file permissions or contact the person who created the file to obtain a copy without restrictions.
2. Corrupted File: If the PDF file has been rendered useless due to damage or corruption, then removing the password might not be possible.
Fix: Obtain a backup copy of the file or use a PDF recovery tool to repair the corrupted file.
3. Password is Unknown: If you don’t know the password, then removing the password might not be possible.
Fix: Use an online tool to recover the password or contact the person who created the file to obtain the password.
Implications and Recommendations
Removing password from a PDF file can have several implications such as exposing the content to unauthorized users or compromising the integrity of the file. Here are some recommendations to consider:
- Ensure the PDF file is authorized for password removal before proceeding.
- Do not share the unlocked PDF file with unauthorized users.
- Use a secure and reliable method to remove password from a PDF file.
5 FAQs about How to Remove Password on A Pdf
Q1. Is it legal to remove password from a PDF file?
A1. Yes, it is legal to remove password from a PDF file if you are the rightful owner of the file or have obtained necessary permissions.
Q2. Are online tools secure for removing password from a PDF file?
A2. Online tools may not be completely secure and could expose your PDF to potential threats. It is recommended to use a secure method for PDF password removal.
Q3. Can Adobe Reader be used to remove password from a PDF file?
A3. No, Adobe Reader is a free PDF viewer and cannot be used to remove password from a PDF file. You will need Adobe Acrobat Pro for this purpose.
Q4. Can I remove password from a PDF file on a mobile device?
A4. Yes, you can remove password from a PDF file on a mobile device using an online tool or an app that supports PDF editing.
Q5. Can I recover the password on a PDF file?
A5. Yes, you can use an online tool or a password recovery tool to recover the password on a PDF file. However, this process can take time and might not always be successful.
In Conclusion
We hope this blog post has helped you remove password from a PDF file. We have outlined three different methods for PDF password removal along with their pros and cons. Remember to choose a secure and reliable method for removing password from a PDF file and follow the recommended precautions to avoid any negative implications.