PDkefWindowsOn-device
Windows, no install

How to Sign a PDF on a Windows Computer

You can sign a PDF on your computer without printing and scanning it. Open PDkef in Chrome or Edge, choose the document, add your answers and signature, and download the finished copy. It is free, and the PDF is processed on your PC.

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Four steps

Sign a PDF on your computer in four steps

  1. 1Save the PDF from email or WhatsApp. Put it in a folder you can find again, such as Downloads. Keep the original in case you need to start over.
  2. 2Open pdkef.com/sign in Chrome or Edge. Drag the PDF from File Explorer into the tool, or choose it with the file picker.
  3. 3Add your details, then your signature. Place text and check marks on the page. Draw with a mouse, trackpad, touchscreen, or pen; type your signature; or choose an image of one you signed on paper.
  4. 4Download and review the new PDF. Its name begins with "signed_". Check all pages, then attach that file to your email or WhatsApp reply. The original stays unchanged.
Real PDkef editor showing the empty file picker with Drop PDF here
Open pdkef.com/sign and choose your file. There is no account or upload step; the PDF loads straight into the browser.
Real PDkef Create Signature dialog with Draw, Type, and Upload tabs
Draw, type, or upload a signature. Typed signatures use a handwriting font; drawn ones follow your mouse, trackpad, or pen.
Real PDkef editor showing a practice form filled in with text, a checked box, and a typed signature
The same document, filled in and signed. Text, a checked box, and a typed signature, all placed before download.
Edge, side by side

Can Microsoft Edge sign a PDF too?

Yes. Edge's PDF reader supports basic form filling and inking, so you can use its Draw tool for a signature. It also has Add text for blank areas. Those tools may be all you need. PDkef is another option when you want to type a signature, choose a signature image, or use the same editor on your phone.

You can work with a local PDF in either workflow. Choose the controls that suit the form.
What you need to doMicrosoft EdgePDkef
Add a handwritten signatureDraw with the inking toolDraw, type, or choose a signature image
Complete a form with fillable fieldsBasic form filling; XFA forms are not supportedPlace text and check marks on the page
Type onto a flat or scanned formUse Add text and position the text boxClick the page to add a text box
Mark a checkbox on a scanned formDraw a tick or add an XPlace a check mark or cross
Before you send it

Return the signed PDF without a print and scan detour

Working directly on the PDF avoids making a new scan of every page. It does not turn an existing scan into searchable text, but it lets you add the answers and signature without another trip through a printer. If you were sent photos instead of a PDF, use Image to PDF first.

Open the downloaded copy before sending it: check the signature, dates, checkboxes, and page order. PDkef adds a visible signature, not a certificate-based digital signature or identity check. If the sender asks for a specific signing service or method, follow those instructions. Need to hide personal details in a shared copy? Use the PDF redaction tool before sending it.

No account needed

Free signing on your PC, including offline use

PDkef is free, with no signup or watermark, and open source under the MIT license. The PDF and signature are processed on your computer. Drafts and saved signatures can stay in the browser, so use a personal browser profile for documents you would not leave on a shared desk.

To use it without a connection, install PDkef while online and let the required assets download. Test an export with your chosen font before going offline. You can finish the document locally and send it when you are connected again.

Signing on a different device?

Sign a PDF on your computer
Got questions?

Frequently asked questions

How do I sign a PDF on my computer for free?

Open PDkef's signing tool in Chrome or Edge, choose the PDF, add your details and signature, and download the finished file. There is no signup, subscription, or watermark. You can also use Microsoft Edge's Draw tool if a handwritten mark is all you need.

Do I need to install software on Windows to sign a PDF?

No. PDkef works in a browser without an extension or desktop installation. Installing it as a web app is optional and useful for offline access. On a managed work computer, your organization's browser and file policies still apply.

Can I add text and a signature with Microsoft Edge?

Yes. Edge has basic PDF form filling, an Add text tool for blank areas, and a Draw tool for handwriting. PDkef also lets you type a signature or choose an existing signature image. Choose whichever workflow fits the document.

Can I use a touchscreen or pen instead of a mouse?

Yes. You can draw with a mouse, trackpad, touchscreen, or compatible stylus. Draw the signature at a comfortable size, then resize it on the PDF. Typing your name or choosing a signature image is also available.

Where does the signed PDF go on Windows?

It goes to the browser's download location, usually Downloads, or the folder you choose when prompted. The name begins with "signed_" and the original file is not overwritten. Attach that new file when replying by email or WhatsApp.

Does PDkef create a certificate-based digital signature?

No. It adds a visible signature to the PDF and does not provide a signing certificate, identity verification, or a signing audit trail. If the recipient requests one of those, use the signing method they specify.

Does this populate the PDF's interactive form fields?

PDkef adds text and check marks to the page rather than writing values into interactive form fields. If a form needs its built-in submit button or the recipient needs field data, use a compatible form reader for that PDF.

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