These days, we can easily remove the password from a protected PDF. This article will discuss one of the best tools for this purpose, which can get the job done in seconds if you know how to unlock a PDF. This method is beneficial for anyone who’s forgotten their PDF’s password and is unable to access the document. Our cloud-based tool eliminates the need to download or install any software or applications onto your device.
It’s common to lose passwords and be unable to open PDFs, making it essential to know how to unlock your PDFs. Additionally, you may need to unlock an old file that was locked by someone else, and they’re unavailable to ask them for the password. If you wish to read, print, or edit the file, it’s necessary to unlock it, although of course, you must have the owner's permission to do so.
This article will highlight one of the best tools for unlocking password-protected PDFs, along with the necessary steps. Additionally, we will discuss some crucial aspects to keep in mind when opening your files. Finally, we will suggest a few alternatives based on the operating system you use.
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Step By Step: How To Unlock A PDF
Introducing "Unlock PDF" by FormatPDF - the ultimate cloud-based tool for removing password protection from files! Say goodbye to the hassle of downloading and installing third-party programs on your device. With the tool, you can safely and efficiently unlock your PDF files without compromising privacy.
You can quickly and easily unlock any file by following these easy steps:
- Go to formatpdf.com/en/unlock-pdf/.
- To upload your file to the tool, click the "Select PDF File" option. It's a big red button, so you won't have any problem finding it. You can also drag and drop your file onto the designated area that reads "OR DRAG AND DROP THE PDF HERE."
- Click the "Unlock" button to begin the process of removing the password from your file. After just a few seconds, your file will be ready to download.
- Now, hit the "Download" button to save the file to your device.
What You Need To Know About Unlocking A PDF
Now that you’ve seen just how simple it can be to open locked PDF files, it's essential to consider a few recommendations when using this tool:
- First and foremost, after removing the password from a file and editing it, it's recommended to re-apply password protection. If the document was password-protected in the first place, it's likely that it contains sensitive or confidential information, and re-protecting it will help to ensure its security.
- Additionally, obtaining the owner's permission before removing the password from any file is crucial. Files are often locked for important reasons, and accessing them without authorization may constitute a criminal offense. Therefore, it's advisable to seek the owner's consent before proceeding.
- Furthermore, you must refrain from sharing any locked document with third parties, even if you have obtained permission to open it.
- Finally, if you need to print an unlocked PDF file, there are a variety of other online tools available for this purpose. One such tool is "Print PDF", which enables seamless printing of documents.
Which Programs Allow You To Unlock A PDF
This section presents various other programs that you can utilize to eliminate passwords from files. It's worthwhile to be acquainted with other alternatives, depending on whether you’re using a Windows PC, Mac, smartphone, or another device.
Unlock A PDF On A PC
To begin with, we will explore the process of unlocking files using computer operating systems like Windows, Mac, and Linux. It's important to note that these suggestions are based on our expertise and understanding.
Windows 10 And Prior Versions Of Windows
If you are using Windows 10, apart from an online tool, one of the most effective methods to unlock a file is using Google Chrome. To do so, drag the password-protected document onto a browser tab, select the "Print" option, and then click the "Save" button. It will generate a new file that can be accessed without requiring a password.
Mac
For Mac users, utilizing the built-in program "Preview" is recommended. Begin by opening the program and locating the password-protected file. You will be prompted to enter the password; please note that this method requires you to have access to the password. Next, click on "Export" under the "File" tab, and uncheck the "Encrypt" option. Once completed, you will have your unlocked file.
Linux
Linux users can use various tools, such as pdftk, to unlock password-protected files. However, installing the software requires entering specific commands in the terminal of the operating system. After installation, further commands must be executed to remove the password. It's important to note that this method requires proficiency with command-line operations. So, it's better to use an online tool in Linux.
Unlock A PDF On A Smartphone Or Tablet
If you’re using a smartphone or tablet this section will outline some of the most effective methods for completing this task. Let's dive in!
Android
Android users can access the Google Play Store, the official app store, to find various applications that can remove passwords from PDF files, thereby unlocking them. Search for keywords like "Unlock PDF" in the store, and you will discover numerous apps that can help you complete the task.
iPhone (iOS) Or iPad
In the Apple App Store, you can find a variety of programs that can unlock password-protected files on iPhones and iPads. The process of searching for an app in iOS is similar to that of Android, as previously discussed. However, note that the set of tools available in the App Store may differ from that of in Google Play Store.