PDF Access Control: View Limits and Time Restrictions

Access control should be simple enough to apply every time you share a document.

Two core controls

• View limit: cap how many opens are allowed
• Expiry: define exactly when access ends

Recommended presets

External proposal

• View limit: medium
• Expiry: 7-14 days
• Download: off

Internal reference

• View limit: high
• Expiry: 30 days
• Download: optional

Confidential review

• View limit: low
• Expiry: 3-7 days
• Download: off
• Watermark: Visitor ID

Operating workflow

1. Upload PDF.
2. Apply preset.
3. Generate link.
4. Share by audience segment.
5. Review open logs and rotate when needed.

Final takeaway

View limits and expiry provide most of the control teams need. Apply them consistently and avoid one permanent link for all recipients.