How to Remove Password from PDF with 9 Methods

PDF passwords play a crucial role in safeguarding sensitive information and provide a secure layer for document confidentiality. These passwords ensure that only authorized individuals can access and modify the content within PDF files. However, there is still a rising need to remove these passwords. Common scenarios include forgotten passwords, collaborative editing requirements, or the need for quick entry to archived documents without access to the owner’s password.

There are solutions tailored to fit the preferences and needs of various types of users, whether you are a Mac OS X user looking to leverage Preview, a Windows enthusiast exploring desktop alternatives, or a Linux user looking to leverage command-line utilities. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore nine distinct methods for removing passwords from PDFs. In this guide, we’ll delve into these approaches, offer step-by-step guides for each method, and help you choose the most suitable path for your PDF password removal needs.

9 Ways to Remove Password from PDF Files

Method 1: Removing PDF Password on a Mac

For Mac users seeking an efficient and user-friendly solution to remove passwords from PDFs, KDAN PDF Reader proves to be a reliable choice. KDAN PDF reader offers a seamless process for unlocking password-protected documents, providing users with a straightforward way to access content without the need for Adobe Acrobat Pro. KDAN PDF Reader is equipped with robust features, making it a valuable tool for managing and modifying PDFs on Mac.

Step-by-Step Guide for Mac Users:

1. Start the KDAN PDF Reader application on your Mac.
2. Open the password-protected PDF file and enter the correct password. Press “OK” to unlock the file.
3. Once the file is opened, go to the toolbar and select “Security”.
4. From the drop-down menu, select “Remove Security.”
5. If the file requires a password, enter it and click “OK.”
6. The PDF Reader application will then remove the password and automatically save the changes.
7. You can now freely view and edit the file’s contents without any password restrictions.

KDAN PDF Reader offers a user-friendly interface and a streamlined process for Mac users to remove passwords from PDFs effortlessly. By following this step-by-step guide, individuals can efficiently manage and access password-protected PDF documents with ease.

Method 2: Using Mac Preview for PDF Password Removal

Mac Preview, the native PDF viewer on macOS, provides a convenient solution for removing passwords from PDF documents without the need for additional software. With Preview, users can efficiently unlock password-protected PDFs. This method is particularly advantageous for Mac users who prefer to work with built-in applications and avoid installing third-party software for routine tasks.

Step-by-Step Guide for Removing Passwords on Mac Preview:

1. Go to the “File” menu and select the Print icon.
2. Click the “PDF” button in the lower-left corner.
3. Choose “Save as PDF” from the dropdown menu.
4. Verify in the “Security Options” dialog box that no printing password has been added to the file.
5. Confirm the action by clicking “OK” to remove password protection from the file in Preview.

By following these steps, users can efficiently manage and access their password-protected PDFs. This method not only simplifies the process of removing PDF passwords but also offers a quick and accessible solution for Mac users who prefer using Preview. 

Method 3: Removing PDF Passwords on Windows

For Windows desktop users seeking an efficient solution for PDF password removal, utilizing specialized applications like KDAN PDF Reader proves to be a valuable option. With a focus on user-friendly interfaces and robust functionalities, apps like KDAN PDF Reader streamline the process of removing passwords, providing a tailored solution for Windows users.

Step-by-Step Guide for Windows Desktop Users:

1. Open KDAN PDF Reader to access the password-protected PDF file. It automatically generates a new copy of the file within the application when opening a PDF.
2. Enter the password when prompted to unlock and view the PDF.
3. Select the “Security” in the toolbar, and choose “Remove Password.”
4. PDF Reader will subsequently store an unlocked version of the file in the “Encrypt & Decrypt” folder.

Method 4: Removing PDF Passwords on iOS Devices

Unlocking password-protected PDFs on iOS devices like iPhones and iPads is a straightforward process that doesn’t require third-party apps. With the built-in functionality of the Files app, users can effortlessly remove PDF passwords and access their documents on the go. This method is especially handy for individuals who prefer managing their files directly on their iOS devices.

Step-by-Step Guide for iPhone and iPad Users:

1. Open KDAN PDF Reader on your iOS device and open the PDF file that is password-protected.
2. Enter the password when prompted to unlock and view the contents of the PDF file.
3. Access extra editing tools by tapping the “More” icon at the top-right corner of the screen.
4. Remove the file’s password by selecting “Remove Security” from the menu.
5. KDAN PDF Reader will generate a new copy of the file without password protection, saving it in the file list for convenient access.

Method 5: Removing PDF Passwords on Android

Unlocking password-protected PDFs on Android can be achieved effortlessly with specialized apps, and one such example is KDAN PDF Reader. These apps provide a mobile solution for users seeking to access password-protected documents on the go. Android users can efficiently remove password restrictions and enjoy seamless access to their PDF content directly from their mobile devices without additional PDF password remover tools.

Step-by-Step Guide for Android Users:

1. Open KDAN PDF Reader on your Android device and locate the password-protected PDF file you wish to unlock.
2. Tap on the PDF file to open it and you will be prompted to input the password for access.
3. Enter the correct password and tap either “OK” or “Unlock” to proceed to the document.
4. After successfully opening the PDF, find the “More” button in the top right corner of the screen and tap it to reveal additional options.
5. In the displayed menu, choose “Remove Password.”
6. KDAN PDF Reader will generate a new copy of the PDF file without password protection, saving it in the “Encrypt & Decrypt” folder.
7. Access the newly created copy of the unlocked PDF file which will allow you to view its contents without requiring a password.

Method 6: Using Google Chrome

Google Chrome provides a unique method for removing password protection from PDFs. The browser’s PDF viewer integrates the print functionality, allowing users to create a new PDF without the original password. This approach is user-friendly and convenient, especially for individuals who may not have specialized PDF editing tools. By capitalizing on Chrome’s inherent capabilities, users can efficiently manage and unlock password-protected PDFs without the need for additional software installations.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open the password-protected PDF in Chrome
2. Enter the password.
3. Once the document is open, go to the ‘File’ menu and select ‘Print’ or use the shortcut (Ctrl+P on Windows or Command+P on Mac).
4. Click ‘Save,’ choose a destination for the new PDF file, and Chrome will save a copy of the document without password protection.
5. Open the newly saved PDF to confirm that the password has been successfully removed. Ensure that you can access the content without entering a password.

Method 7: Online Tools for Removing PDF Passwords

In the digital age, online tools have become increasingly popular for their accessibility and ease of use. These web-based solutions offer a convenient alternative for users who prefer a quick and straightforward approach to unlock their PDF documents without the hassle of software installations. It’s essential to consider the sensitivity of the document’s content and choose reputable platforms with secure connections. Always be cautious about uploading confidential information and ensure the selected online tool aligns with your privacy and security preferences.

Online Tools Recommendations:

• SmallPDF:

SmallPDF is a widely used online platform that offers a variety of PDF-related services, including password removal. Users can upload their password-protected PDFs, and SmallPDF will swiftly process the document, providing an unsecured version for download.

• PDF Candy:

PDF Candy is a versatile online tool that not only removes PDF passwords but also provides a range of other PDF-related features. Users can upload their password-protected PDFs, select the ‘Remove Password’ option, and download the unsecured document.

• ILovePDF:

ILovePDF is a comprehensive online platform offering various PDF tools, including password removal. Users can easily upload their protected PDFs, choose the ‘Unlock PDF’ option, and obtain a version of the document free from password restrictions.

• PDF2Go:

PDF2Go is a user-friendly online service that allows users to remove passwords from PDFs effortlessly. By uploading the password-protected file, users can select the ‘Remove Password’ option, and PDF2Go will generate a new PDF without the need for a password.

Method 8: Unlocking PDFs with the Print Function

For users seeking a straightforward alternative to dedicated PDF password removal tools, the print function proves to be a surprisingly effective method. This approach takes advantage of the inherent print functionality in PDF readers, allowing users to create a new, unsecured PDF file without the need for specialized software. By converting the password-protected document into a fresh PDF during the printing process, it provides a practical workaround for those who may not have access to advanced tools or prefer a quick and simple solution.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Launch your preferred PDF reader and open the password-protected document.
2. Go to the ‘File’ menu and select ‘Print’ or use the keyboard shortcut (Ctrl+P on Windows or Command+P on Mac).
3. Choose the ‘Print to PDF’ Option.
4. Click on ‘Print’ and specify the destination where you want to save the new PDF file. Optionally, provide a distinct file name.
5. Open the newly saved PDF to verify that the document no longer requires a password for access. Ensure that you can access the content without any restrictions.

Method 9: Removing PDF Password Using the Command Line on Linux

Removing password protection from PDFs through the command line on Linux offers a powerful and efficient solution, especially for users who prefer terminal-based operations. The command-line approach provides a quick way to unlock PDFs without relying on graphical interfaces. Users familiar with Linux command-line utilities can take advantage of this method for streamlined PDF password removal.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Open Terminal:

Launch the terminal on your Linux system. You can usually find it in the applications menu or use a keyboard shortcut like Ctrl+Alt+T.

2. Install QPDF:

Ensure that the QPDF tool is installed on your Linux system. If not, you can install it using the package manager specific to your Linux distribution. For example, on Debian-based systems, you can use:

sudo apt-get install qpdf

3. Navigate to the PDF Directory:

Use the ‘cd’ command to navigate to the directory where the password-protected PDF is located. For instance:

cd /path/to/pdf/directroy

4. Run QPDF Command:

Execute the QPDF command to remove the password. Replace ‘input.pdf’ with the actual file name of your password-protected PDF and ‘output.pdf’ with the desired name of the new PDF without password protection.

qpdf --password="YourPassword" --decrypt input.pdf output.pdf

5. Verify Password Removal:

Open the newly created PDF to confirm that the password has been successfully removed. Ensure that the document is now accessible without any password requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the appropriate method for removing passwords from PDFs should be tailored to individual needs and preferences. Each method outlined, whether it be leveraging built-in applications, using third-party software, or employing command-line utilities, offers distinct advantages. Users should consider factors such as ease of use, platform compatibility, and specific features when making their choice.

Furthermore, for a comprehensive PDF management solution, I encourage users to explore KDAN PDF Reader. With its user-friendly interface, robust feature set, and cross-platform capabilities, KDAN PDF Reader stands out as an excellent tool for not only password removal but also comprehensive document management. Enhance your PDF handling experience and streamline your document workflows now with KDAN PDF Reader!

(The featured image is made by Volodymyr Kondriianenko on Unsplash.)