Start with a supported original
Open Protect PDF and choose an unencrypted, unsigned PDF. The tool accepts files up to 10 MB and 100 pages. If the file is larger, prepare an appropriate smaller copy or split the document before protecting it. Keep an unencrypted original somewhere you can access independently. Rewriting a document can invalidate a cryptographic signature, so Folio requires an unsigned source for this workflow. Adding an opening password is a separate task from signing the document.
Set and confirm the opening password
Enter a password of 8–64 characters, then type it again in the confirmation field. Use the visibility control to check it in a private setting if the values do not match. Avoid placing the password in the PDF file name or on its first page. Folio processes the PDF and password in memory when creating the protected download and does not save the opening password. The application cannot recover it for you later, so keep your own record.
Download and test the protected copy
You can choose your file and configure protection before paying. Downloading the encrypted copy requires a premium plan. Sign-in and checkout open separately so the current workspace stays open. After access is confirmed, request the protected download, then open that file in a PDF reader and confirm it asks for the correct password. Folio uses AES-256 encryption for this copy. Send the password through a separate channel when that fits your sharing process.
Understand what protection does and does not change
An opening password controls access to the file. Once someone can open it, this workflow does not prevent them from copying or sharing its contents. It also does not remove sensitive text, clean metadata, or sanitize attachments. If you need a redacted document, use a process designed to remove that information and verify its result separately. Keep the original and the protected copy clearly named, and check that you are sharing the intended version.