GuaPDF

GuaPDF is a lightweight and portable application which quickly removes the protection status from files with the PDF format, such printing, editing and viewing. It can be used even by individuals with no experience in this type of software.

Since GuaPDF does not come with an installation pack, you can store the app on a USB flash drive or other similar device, save it to any computer and directly run its executable file.

This way, you can always have GuaPDF with you when you're on the move. Plus, the Windows Registry is not updated with new entries, and no leftover files can be found on the hard drive after program removal.

The interface of the tool consists of a plain and uncomplicated window where you can load a PDF by using only the file browser, since the 'drag and drop' method is not supported. Unfortunately, you cannot remove the protection status of multiple files at the same time. You can set the CPU priority level and minimize the tool to the system tray area.

Once an item has been selected for processing, GuaPDF automatically initializes the procedure. Unfortunately, the program does not provide users with any configurable settings. For example, the original file is automatically overwritten and you do not have the alternative option of creating a new one.

The simplistic tool does not put a strain on the computer's resources, as it uses a very low amount of CPU and system memory. It has a good response time and worked smoothly during our evaluation, without causing the operating system to freeze, crash or pop up error dialogs. On the downside, GuaPDF has not been updated for a very long time.