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How to Encrypt a PDF on Mac in 3 Methods

Part 1. Encrypt PDF on Mac Without Software

MacOS enjoys the monopoly of being a stand-alone operating system and mainly have specified software for its operations. However, to encrypt a PDF on Mac, you don't necessarily have to follow the designated software since many online tools offer a wide range of features that could ensure privacy, security, and file encryption better than the designated software. Hence learn how to encrypt a PDF on Mac using the following tool without the hassle of installing software. Knowing how to password protect a PDF is surely useful for you.

VancePDF Protect PDF

VancePDF is a sophisticated tool for PDF management and editing. It can edit, customize, convert, merge, and encrypt a PDF on Mac. It also offers secure uploading and processing of PDF files for encryption. It is automated and can be used within a few clicks. How to encrypt a PDF on Mac is easy, just follow these steps:

Step1: Drag and drop or upload a PDF file.

how to encrypt a pdf on mac_vancepdf_step1.

Step2: Input your password twice and click 'protect PDF' to encrypt.

how to encrypt a pdf on mac_vancepdf_step 2

Step3: Click to download the encrypted file.

how to encrypt a pdf on mac_vancepdf_step 3

Part 2: Encrypt PDF on Mac Using Preview App

Preview is a core app on Mac OS. Since it is preinstalled on the computer, you just have to get your PDF ready and follow the steps below to learn how to encrypt a PDF on Mac.

Step1: Launch preview App from the Launchpad.

how to encrypt a pdf on mac_preview app_step1

Step2: Click 'file'> 'open' from the menu to open the PDF document you want to encrypt.

encrypt a pdf on mac_preview app_step 2

Step3: Click 'File'> 'Export.' Click on 'add a password' in the following drop-down option.

encrypt a pdf on mac_preview app_step 3

Step4: To add a password, click the 'Encrypt' checkbox in the options menu and type your password in the 'password.' Then click to 'verify' after. Then press the 'save' button.

encrypt a pdf on mac_preview app_step 4

Part 3: Encrypt PDF on Mac Using Adobe Acrobat Pro

To learn how to encrypt PDF on Mac using Adobe Acrobat Pro, you need to get the software. Adobe is primarily associated with PDF. Hence, it has the best features for the best way to encrypt PDF on Mac. It makes use of AES encryption to protect a file. How to encrypt a PDF on Mac requires the following steps:

Step 1: Open PDF in Adobe Acrobat then select the Protect option from the right side bar

how to encrypt a pdf on mac_adobe acrobat pro_step 1

Step 2: Choose the Protect Using Password option on the top navigation bar to encrypt your PDF

how to encrypt a pdf on mac_adobe acrobat pro_step 2

Step 3: Type and retype your password. Note that the password needs to be at least 6 characters. Click Apply to complete the encryption procedure. 

how to encrypt a pdf on mac_adobe acrobat pro_step 3

Conclusion

There's no ultimate guarantee for 100% system safety, but password protect PDF is surely safe. However, when there's a breach in your system's security through a cyber hack, you should have your confidential data secured. Hence, it is a no-brainer to learn how to encrypt a PDF On Mac and protect your system. Also read Top 5 Tools to Remove a Watermark From a PDF.