BentoPDF Complete Guide: 130+ Free PDF Tools + Docker Self-Hosting Setup

A to Z About BentoPDF + How to Setup BentoPDF Self-Hosting on Docker?

We must have an Aadhaar card PDF or similar identity documents on our phones for everyday government tasks. A lawyer must split pages of confidential court documents. A teacher may need to compress 50 students’ report PDFs in a single batch. A hospital employee needs to combine patient records.

Furthermore, a freelancer combines invoices and bills to send to a client. Moreover, they may prefer to keep their PDFs only on their devices, so no one else can see them, with no uploading, external transfer, or cloud storage at all.

Do you believe me when I say that your PDFs can be split, merged or compressed for 100% free with no file or size limits, without signing up, fully offline, and without sending them across the internet to a remote server like ILovePDF, Adobe Acrobat, etc.?

Sounds good? Well, an open-source and one of the safest PDF toolkits known as ‘BentoPDF’ makes all these things possible in real time. BentoPDF is a simple yet powerful, privacy-first, client-side PDF toolkit that offers not just only 5 to 10 PDF tools or operations but also 130+ tools in one place.

Core Features of BentoPDF

  1. 100+ handy tools
  2. Works fully offline
  3. 100% free
  4. No sign-up required
  5. Never uploads file to server
  6. Always privacy first
  7. Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS compatible
  8. Fully unlimited

Who Can Use BentoPDF?

  • Students – Merge assignments, compress files for portal upload
  • Freelancers – Sign contracts, compress invoices
  • Teachers – Merge notes, add watermarks
  • Business owners Protect reports, redact sensitive info
  • Government form users – Fill forms, compress scanned documents

How to Use BentoPDF?

  1. First, open any browser
  2. Go to https://www.bentopdf.com/

    BentoPDF main interface - PayalPedia
  3. Select a tool (Merge, Split, Compress, etc.)
    (You can also do that by clicking the Start Using Now button.)
  4. Browse or drag and drop your PDF file
  5. Hit the action button
  6. Finally, download your result file

Below is a simple example of a PDF file converted from a WebP (image) file.


Find Out About All 130+ BentoPDF Tools

Understand and start to use these simple and beginner-friendly explanations for every single tool of BentoPDF.

BentoPDF Popular tools - PayalPedia

Quick Overview — Tool Categories

CategoryNumber of Tools
Edit & Annotate20 Tools
Convert to PDF31 Tools
Convert from PDF17 Tools
Organize & Manage26 Tools
Optimize & Repair10 Tools
Secure PDF8 Tools
Total130+ Tools

CATEGORY 1 — Edit & Annotate (20 Tools)

These tools help you modify, mark up, and improve your PDF.

1. PDF Editor

What it does: Open and edit your PDF directly. You can highlight text, add comments, draw shapes, insert images, and redact (hide) content.

Example: You received a contract PDF. You highlight the important clauses in yellow, add a comment saying “Need to review”, and sign it — all without printing.


2. Edit Bookmarks

What it does: Add, edit, or delete bookmarks inside a PDF. Bookmarks are like a table of contents that lets readers jump to specific pages quickly.

Example: You have a 200-page research PDF. You add bookmarks for Chapter 1, Chapter 2, and the appendix so readers can jump directly to any section.


3. Table of Contents

What it does: Automatically generate a Table of Contents page from the bookmarks already in your PDF.

Example: Your eBook has 10 chapters with bookmarks. This tool creates a clickable table of contents page at the beginning automatically.


4. Page Numbers

What it does: Add page numbers to the bottom or top of every page in your PDF.

Example: You have a 50-page report PDF with no page numbers. You add numbers at the bottom centre of every page before submitting it.


5. Add Page Labels

What it does: It applies custom labels to pages – like Roman numerals (i, ii, iii) for the intro pages, like the introduction, or custom prefixes, like “Appendix-A”.

Example: Your book PDF has a preface (pages i to v) and then main content (pages 1 to 100). You label them separately to match the printed book style.


6. Bates Numbering

What it does: Add a sequential identification number (called a Bates number) to every page across one or more PDF files. Used in legal and business documents.

Example: A lawyer has 5 different case documents. She adds Bates numbers (001, 002, 003…) across all files so every page has a unique ID for court reference.


7. Add Watermark

What it does: Stamp text (like “CONFIDENTIAL” or your website name) or an image logo over every page of your PDF.

Example: You create a digital product (eBook) and add your website name “PayalPedia.com” as a light watermark on every page before distributing it.


8. Header & Footer

What it does: Add any text to the top (header) or bottom (footer) of every page — like your company name, date, or document title.

Example: You add “Annual Report 2025 — ABC Company” in the header and “www.abccompany.com” in the footer of a 30-page business report.


9. Invert Colors

What it does: Flip the colours of your PDF – white becomes black, and black becomes white. This creates a dark mode version of your PDF.

Example: You have a white-background PDF that strains your eyes at night. You invert the colours to get a dark background with white text for comfortable night reading.


10. Scanner Effect

What it does: Makes your digital PDF look like it was physically scanned — adds a slightly aged, scanned paper appearance.

Example: You need to submit a digital document, but it must look like a scanned hard copy. This tool adds that authentic scanned look without any printing or scanning.


11. Adjust Colors

What it does: Change the brightness, contrast, and saturation of your PDF pages — like editing a photo.

Example: A scanned document looks too dark and is hard to read. You use this tool to increase brightness and reduce contrast so the text becomes clear.


12. Background Color

What it does: Change the background colour of all pages in your PDF to any colour you want.

Example: You have a plain white PDF report. You change the background to a light cream colour to make it easier on the eyes for long reading.


13. Change Text Color

What it does: Changes the colour of the text in your PDF.

Example: Your PDF has black text, but you want the headings to appear in blue. Use this tool to change the text colour for a better visual presentation.


14. Sign PDF

What it does: Add your signature to a PDF by drawing it with your mouse, typing your name, or uploading a signature image.

Example: Your employer sends you an appointment letter as a PDF. You sign it digitally using BentoPDF and send it back — no printing or scanning needed.


15. Add Stamps

What it does: Add image stamps (like an official seal or logo) to your PDF pages using the annotation toolbar.

Example: A company adds its official red stamp image to every page of an outgoing contract PDF before sending it to a client.


16. Remove Annotations

What it does: Delete all comments, highlights, underlines, and links that were added to a PDF.

Example: You received a PDF with many reviewer comments and highlights. You use this tool to clean it up and produce a fresh, clean version for final printing.


17. Crop PDF

What it does: Trim the edges (margins) of every page in your PDF to remove extra white space or unwanted borders.

Example: A scanned document has large white margins. You crop all pages to remove the extra space and make the content fill the page properly.


18. PDF Form Filler

What it does: Fill in PDF forms directly in your browser — type in text boxes, tick checkboxes, and select dropdown options — without printing.

Example: You download a government application form as a PDF. You fill in your name, address, and other details directly online and download the completed form.


19. Create PDF Form

What it does: Build your own fillable PDF form from scratch using drag-and-drop text fields, checkboxes, and dropdowns.

Example: A teacher creates a digital feedback form PDF with text fields for student name, rating stars, and comments – and shares it with students to fill out online.


20. Remove Blank Pages

What it does: Automatically find and delete all blank pages from your PDF.

Example: After scanning a 30-page document, you end up with 5 empty pages between sections. This tool detects and removes them all automatically.


CATEGORY 2 — Convert to PDF (31 Tools)

These tools convert other file formats into PDF.

21. Images to PDF

What it does: Convert multiple image files (JPG, PNG, BMP, TIFF, etc.) into a single PDF document.

Example: You took 10 photos of a printed document. Convert all 10 images into one combined PDF file to email it easily.


22. JPG to PDF

What it does: Convert one or more JPG images into a PDF.

Example: You have a scanned JPG of your ID card. Convert it to PDF to attach it to an online application form that only accepts PDF files.


23. PNG to PDF

What it does: Convert PNG image files into a PDF.

Example: You saved a website screenshot as a PNG. Convert it to PDF to include it in a report or share it more professionally.


24. WebP to PDF

What it does: Convert WebP format images into a PDF. WebP is a modern image format used by Google and many websites.

Example: You downloaded a WebP image from a website but need it as a PDF for documentation. This tool converts it instantly.


25. SVG to PDF

What it does: Convert SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) files into PDF. SVG files are used for logos and illustrations.

Example: Your graphic designer gave you a logo in SVG format. You convert it to PDF to include it in a printed brochure.


26. BMP to PDF

What it does: Convert BMP image files into PDF. BMP is an older image format used in Windows.

Example: You have old scanned documents saved as BMP files. Convert them to PDF for better sharing and storage.


27. HEIC to PDF

What it does: Convert HEIC images to PDF. HEIC is the default photo format on iPhones.

Example: You took a photo of a receipt on your iPhone (saved as HEIC). Convert it to PDF to submit it as an expense claim.


28. TIFF to PDF

What it does: Convert TIFF image files into PDF. TIFF is a high-quality format used in professional scanning.

Example: Your office scanner saves files as TIFF. You convert the TIFF scan into a PDF for easy sharing by email.


29. Text to PDF

What it does: Convert a plain .TXT text file into a PDF document.

Example: You wrote meeting notes in Notepad and saved them as a .TXT file. Convert it to PDF to share it in a more professional format.


30. Markdown to PDF

What it does: Convert a Markdown (.md) file into a PDF with live preview. Markdown is a simple writing format used by bloggers and developers.

Example: You wrote a blog article draft in Markdown format. Convert it to a nicely formatted PDF to share with your editor before publishing.


31. JSON to PDF

What it does: Convert JSON data files into PDF format.

Example: You have a JSON file with survey results. Convert it to PDF to include it in a report for management.


32. ODT to PDF

What it does: Convert ODT files (LibreOffice Writer documents) to PDF.

Example: You wrote a report in LibreOffice Writer (saved as ODT). Convert it to PDF before sending it to someone who may not have LibreOffice installed.


33. CSV to PDF

What it does: Convert a CSV spreadsheet file into a formatted PDF.

Example: You exported a sales data CSV from an app. Convert it to PDF to share a clean, readable version with your boss.


34. RTF to PDF

What it does: Convert RTF (Rich Text Format) documents into PDF.

Example: You received an RTF file but need to submit it as a PDF. Convert it in seconds with this tool.


35. Word to PDF

What it does: Convert Microsoft Word (.DOCX or .DOC) files into PDF.

Example: Your resume is in Word format. Convert it to PDF before applying for a job — a PDF looks more professional and consistent on all devices.


36. Excel to PDF

What it does: Convert Excel spreadsheets (.XLSX or .XLS) into PDF.

Example: You made a budget table in Excel. Convert it to PDF to share it with someone who does not have Excel installed.


37. PowerPoint to PDF

What it does: Convert PowerPoint presentations (.PPTX or .PPT) into PDF.

Example: You made a business presentation in PowerPoint. Convert it to PDF before emailing so the layout and fonts look the same on every device.


38. XPS to PDF

What it does: Convert XPS files (an old Microsoft document format) into PDF.

Example: An old Windows computer generated an XPS document. Convert it to PDF so it can be opened on any modern device.


39. MOBI to PDF

What it does: Convert MOBI eBook files into PDF. MOBI is used by older Kindle devices.

Example: You have a book in MOBI format but want to read it on your laptop. Convert it to PDF for easy viewing.


40. EPUB to PDF

What it does: Convert EPUB eBook files into PDF. EPUB is the most common eBook format.

Example: You downloaded a free eBook in EPUB format. Convert it to PDF to print it or read it in a consistent layout.


41. FB2 to PDF

What it does: Convert FB2 (FictionBook) eBook files into PDF. FB2 is popular in Russia and Eastern Europe.

Example: You downloaded a novel in FB2 format. Convert it to PDF for easier reading on your tablet.


42. CBZ to PDF

What it does: Convert CBZ/CBR comic book archive files into PDF.

Example: You downloaded a digital comic book in CBZ format. Convert it to PDF to read it in any PDF viewer app.


43. WPD to PDF

What it does: Convert WordPerfect (.WPD) documents into PDF. WordPerfect is an old word processor.

Example: You found an old legal document saved in WPD format. Convert it to PDF so you can open and read it today.


44. WPS to PDF

What it does: Convert WPS Office documents into PDF. WPS Office is a popular free alternative to Microsoft Office.

Example: You created a letter in WPS Office. Convert it to PDF before sending it professionally.


45. XML to PDF

What it does: Convert XML data files into PDF format.

Example: A software program exports data in XML format. You convert it to PDF to include it in an official report.


46. ODG to PDF

What it does: Convert ODG (OpenDocument Graphics) files into PDF. ODG is a drawing format from LibreOffice Draw.

Example: You created a flowchart in LibreOffice Draw (saved as ODG). Convert it to PDF to add it to a presentation.


47. ODS to PDF

What it does: Convert ODS (OpenDocument Spreadsheet) files into PDF. ODS is the LibreOffice Calc format.

Example: You made a budget in LibreOffice Calc (saved as ODS). Convert it to PDF to share it easily.


48. ODP to PDF

What it does: Convert ODP (OpenDocument Presentation) files into PDF. ODP is the LibreOffice Impress format.

Example: Your presentation is in LibreOffice Impress (ODP). Convert it to PDF before presenting on a computer that may not have LibreOffice.


49. PUB to PDF

What it does: Convert Microsoft Publisher (.PUB) files into PDF. Publisher is used to make brochures, flyers, and newsletters.

Example: You designed a company flyer in Microsoft Publisher. Convert it to PDF to send it to a printing shop.


50. VSD to PDF

What it does: Convert Microsoft Visio (.VSD or .VSDX) files into PDF. Visio is used for flowcharts and diagrams.

Example: Your IT team made a network diagram in Visio. Convert it to PDF to include it in a project report.


51. PSD to PDF

What it does: Convert Adobe Photoshop (.PSD) files into PDF.

Example: A graphic designer made a poster in Photoshop (PSD). Convert it to PDF to send to the client for approval.


52. Email to PDF

What it does: Convert email files (.EML or .MSG format) into PDF.

Example: You want to save an important email as a record. Export the email as an .EML file, then convert it to PDF for permanent storage.


CATEGORY 3 — Convert From PDF (17 Tools)

These tools convert PDF files into other formats.

53. PDF to JPG

What it does: Convert each page of a PDF into a separate JPG image.

Example: You have a product catalogue PDF. Convert every page to JPG so you can upload individual page images to your website.


54. PDF to PNG

What it does: Convert each page of a PDF into a PNG image (transparent background supported).

Example: You need a PDF page as a PNG image for a presentation slide. Convert the specific page to PNG and insert it into PowerPoint.


55. PDF to WebP

What it does: Convert each PDF page into a WebP image — a smaller, faster format for websites.

Example: You want to display PDF pages on your website as images. Convert them to WebP for faster loading speed.


56. PDF to BMP

What it does: Convert each PDF page into a BMP image.

Example: A legacy software only accepts BMP files. Convert the needed PDF pages to BMP for compatibility.


57. PDF to TIFF

What it does: Convert each PDF page into a high-quality TIFF image.

Example: A printing company needs your document in TIFF format for professional printing. Convert your PDF to TIFF.


58. PDF to CBZ

What it does: Convert a PDF into a CBZ file (Comic Book Archive format) for comic readers and eBook apps like Calibre.

Example: You made a digital comic book as a PDF. Convert it to CBZ to open it in a comic book reader app.


59. PDF to SVG

What it does: Convert each page of a PDF into a scalable SVG vector graphic.

Example: You have a logo or diagram in PDF format. Convert it to SVG so it can be scaled to any size without losing quality.


60. PDF to CSV

What it does: Extract tables from a PDF and save the data as a CSV spreadsheet.

Example: You receive a bank statement as a PDF. Convert it to CSV and open it in Excel to sort, filter, and analyse the transactions.


61. PDF to Excel

What it does: Extract tables from a PDF and save the data as an Excel (.XLSX) file.

Example: A government report PDF has data tables. Convert to Excel to work with the numbers — calculate totals, make charts, etc.


62. PDF to Greyscale

What it does: Converts a colourful PDF into black and white (greyscale).

Example: You need to print a colourful PDF on a black-and-white printer. Convert it to greyscale first so the print output looks clean and even.


63. PDF to JSON

What it does: Convert PDF file content and structure into JSON data format.

Example: A developer needs PDF content in JSON format to import it into a database or app. This tool converts it in one click.


64. PDF to Word

What it does: Convert a PDF file into an editable Microsoft Word (.DOCX) document.

Example: You have an old contract as a PDF but need to update some clauses. Convert it to Word, edit the text, and save it back as PDF.


65. Extract Images

What it does: Extract all the embedded images from a PDF and download them as separate image files.

Example: A PDF brochure has 20 product photos embedded inside. Use this tool to extract all images without manually screenshotting each one.


66. PDF to Markdown

What it does: Convert the text and tables from a PDF into Markdown format (.md).

Example: You want to publish a PDF article on your blog (which uses Markdown). Convert the PDF to Markdown and paste it directly into your blog editor.


67. Prepare PDF for AI

What it does: Extract PDF content into a special JSON format (LlamaIndex JSON) that AI tools and language models can read and process.

Example: You want to feed a PDF document into an AI chatbot or RAG (Retrieval Augmented Generation) system. Use this tool to prepare the content in the correct format.


68. PDF to Text

What it does: Extract all the text from a PDF and save it as a plain .TXT file.

Example: You have a 100-page book as a PDF. Convert it to text to copy the content, search through it, or feed it into a writing or analysis tool.


69. Extract Tables

What it does: it finds and extracts all tables inside a PDF and saves them as CSV, JSON, or Markdown.

Example: A financial report PDF has 10 tables with numbers. Extract all tables as CSV to open them in Excel and do further analysis.


CATEGORY 4 — Organize & Manage (26 Tools)

These tools help you arrange, combine, split, and manage your PDF pages.

70. PDF Workflow Builder

What it does: Build a custom step-by-step PDF processing pipeline using a visual drag-and-drop node editor. Chain multiple tools together and run them all at once.

Example: You want to compress, add a watermark, and then encrypt a PDF — all in one go. Build this 3-step workflow once and reuse it every time.


71. PDF Multi Tool

What it does: A full-featured editor that lets you manage pages and edit your PDF at the same time in one place.

Example: You open a PDF, and in the same screen, you rearrange pages, delete a blank page, and add a stamp — all without switching between tools.


72. OCR PDF

What it does: Make a scanned image-based PDF searchable. After OCR, you can search for words, copy text, and highlight content.

Example: You scanned an old agreement from 2010. After OCR, you can search for a specific clause by pressing Ctrl+F — just like a normal text document.


73. Merge PDF

What it does: Combine two or more PDF files into one single PDF.

Example: You have 3 separate PDFs — Resume, Cover Letter, and Experience Certificate. Merge them into one file before uploading to a job portal.


74. Alternate & Mix Pages

What it does: Merge two PDFs by alternating pages — one page from File A, one page from File B, and so on.

Example: You scanned the front sides of a 10-page document as one PDF and the back sides as another. Use this tool to interleave them into the correct order.


75. Organize & Duplicate

What it does: Drag and drop pages to reorder them, duplicate a page, or delete specific pages — all with a visual page preview.

Example: You have a 10-page PDF but need to rearrange pages 3, 5, and 7 to come first. Drag them to the front and save the new version.


76. Add Attachments

What it does: Embed one or more files (any file type) inside your PDF as an attachment.

Example: You are sending a legal PDF and want to attach the original Excel spreadsheet inside it. Embed the Excel file so everything is in one PDF.


77. Extract Attachments

What it does: Extract all files that are embedded inside a PDF and download them as a ZIP archive.

Example: You received a PDF with multiple attached files inside. Use this tool to extract all attachments at once.


78. Edit Attachments

What it does: View the list of files attached inside a PDF and remove any you do not need.

Example: A PDF has 5 attachments but you only want to keep 2. Remove the other 3 with this tool.


79. PDF OCG (Layers)

What it does: View, toggle, add, and delete OCG (Optional Content Group) layers in a PDF. Layers are used in technical drawings and maps.

Example: An architect’s PDF has multiple layers (walls, plumbing, electrical). Use this tool to show or hide specific layers as needed.


80. Split PDF

What it does: Extracts a specific range of pages from a large PDF and saves them as a new, smaller PDF.

Example: You have a 100-page textbook PDF. Split pages 40 to 60 (Chapter 4) into a separate PDF to study only that chapter.


81. Divide Pages

What it does: Divide each page of a PDF into two halves — either horizontally (top and bottom) or vertically (left and right).

Example: A scanned book has two book pages on each PDF page (both pages visible in one scan). Use Divide Pages to split each scan into two separate pages.


82. Extract Pages

What it does: Select specific pages and save them as separate new PDF files.

Example: A payroll PDF has 100 pages (one per employee). Extract page 25 to give only that employee their individual payslip.


83. Delete Pages

What it does: Remove specific pages from a PDF permanently.

Example: Your 20-page report has page 5, which is a duplicate. Delete page 5 and save the clean 19-page version.


84. Add Blank Page

What it does: Insert an empty white page anywhere in your PDF — at the beginning, end, or between existing pages.

Example: You want a blank notes page after every chapter in your study PDF. Insert blank pages at the right positions easily.


85. Reverse Pages

What it does: Flip the order of all pages — the last page becomes the first, and the first page becomes the last.

Example: Your scanner scanned all pages in reverse order. Reverse the page order to fix it in one click.


86. Rotate PDF

What it does: Rotate all pages (or specific pages) by 90 degrees clockwise or anticlockwise.

Example: Some pages in your scanned PDF are sideways (landscape) when they should be portrait. Rotate those pages to the correct orientation.


87. Rotate by Custom Degrees

What it does: Rotate pages by any angle you choose—not just 90 degrees, but any custom value, like 15° or 45°.

Example: A scanned page is slightly tilted at 5 degrees. Rotate it by exactly -5 degrees to make it straight.


88. N-Up PDF

What it does: Arrange multiple PDF pages onto a single sheet — like 2 pages per sheet, 4 pages per sheet, or more.

Example: You want to print a 20-page PDF with 4 pages on each sheet of paper to save paper. Use N-Up PDF to set it to a 4-up layout before printing.


89. PDF Booklet

What it does: Rearrange the pages of a PDF so that when you print double-sided and fold the paper, it becomes a proper booklet.

Example: You want to print a 16-page event program as a folded booklet. This tool rearranges the pages in the correct printing order automatically.


90. Combine to Single Page

What it does: Stitch all pages of a PDF into one single very long page (a continuous vertical scroll).

Example: You have a 5-page PDF and want to share it as one long image or one scrollable page. Combine all pages into one continuous page.


91. View Metadata

What it does: See the hidden information stored inside your PDF — like the author name, creation date, software used to make it, and more.

Example: You receive a PDF document and want to check who originally created it and when. ‘View Metadata’ reveals the author and creation date.


92. Edit Metadata

What it does: Change the hidden properties of your PDF — update the title, author name, subject, and keywords.

Example: You created a PDF, but the author field shows the wrong name. Edit the metadata to correct the author name before sharing it officially.


93. PDFs to ZIP

What it does: Package multiple PDF files together into a single .ZIP archive for easy sharing or storage.

Example: You need to send 20 individual PDF invoices to a client. Package all 20 into one ZIP file and send just that single file.


94. Compare PDFs

What it does: Compare two versions of a PDF side by side to see what changed between them.

Example: You edited a contract and saved a new version. Compare the original and updated version to see exactly which sentences or numbers changed.


95. Posterize PDF

What it does: Split one large page into multiple smaller pages — like a poster that needs to be printed on A4 sheets and assembled.

Example: You have a large A0-size map PDF. Posterise it to split it across 16 A4 sheets so you can print and assemble it as a large wall map.


CATEGORY 5 — Optimize & Repair (10 Tools)

These tools fix, compress, and optimise your PDF files.

96. Compress PDF

What it does: Reduces the file size of your PDF, making it smaller without losing much quality.

Example: Your scanned application is 8MB, but the government portal only allows 2MB. Compress the PDF to bring it under 2MB and upload it successfully.


97. PDF to PDF/A

What it does: Convert a regular PDF into PDF/A format — a special archival format designed for long-term storage that meets international standards.

Example: A government archive requires all submitted documents to be in PDF/A format. Convert your regular PDF to PDF/A before submission.


98. Fix Page Size

What it does: Standardises all pages in your PDF to a uniform size — like making all pages A4 even if some are A3 or letter size.

Example: Your PDF has pages of different sizes because you combined documents from different sources. Fix Page Size to make all pages the same A4 size.


99. Linearize PDF

What it does: Optimise the PDF file structure so it loads faster when opened in a web browser (also called “Fast Web View”).

Example: You have a large PDF on your website that takes too long to open online. Linearise it so the first pages appear immediately while the rest continue to load.


100. Page Dimensions

What it does: View the exact size, orientation, and unit measurements of every page in your PDF.

Example: Before sending a PDF to a printer, check the exact page dimensions to confirm all pages are A4 and in portrait orientation as required.


101. Remove Restrictions

What it does: Removes the security restrictions from a PDF — like the restriction that prevents printing or copying text (for PDFs you are authorised to edit).

Example: You own a PDF but forgot the editing password. Use Remove Restrictions to unlock it and regain full access.


102. Repair PDF

What it does: Try to recover and fix a corrupted or damaged PDF file that cannot be opened normally.

Example: A PDF file got corrupted during download or transfer and shows an error when you try to open it. Use Repair PDF to recover the content.


103. Rasterize PDF

What it does: Convert the PDF into an image-based PDF — all text becomes non-selectable images. This also flattens all layers.

Example: You want to share a PDF but prevent anyone from copying, editing, or extracting the text. Rasterise it to turn all text into images.


104. Deskew PDF

What it does: Automatically detect and straighten tilted or crooked scanned pages using smart technology.

Example: Pages scanned at a slight angle look unprofessional. Deskew automatically straightens all crooked pages in one click.


105. Font to Outline

What it does: Convert all fonts in your PDF into vector outlines. This means the text will look correct on any device, even if the font is not installed.

Example: You send a PDF to a printer, but the printer’s computer does not have your custom font. Convert fonts to outlines so the text displays perfectly without any font issues.


CATEGORY 6 — Secure PDF (8 Tools)

These tools protect your PDF files and control who can access them.

106. Encrypt PDF

What it does: Lock your PDF with a password. Anyone who tries to open the file will need to enter the password first.

Example: You are emailing a salary slip PDF to an employee. Encrypt it with a password (which you share separately) so no one else can open it if the email is forwarded accidentally.


107. Sanitize PDF

What it does: Clean your PDF by removing hidden metadata, annotations, scripts, embedded files, and other hidden content that could reveal private information.

Example: Before publishing a PDF report publicly, sanitise it to remove the author’s name, internal comments, and revision history that were added automatically.


108. Decrypt PDF

What it does: Remove the password protection from a PDF (for files you have permission to unlock).

Example: You have your own password-protected PDF but want to share it without a password. Decrypt it to remove the password and make it openly accessible.


109. Flatten PDF

What it does: Make all form fields and annotations permanent and non-editable. The PDF looks the same but no one can change the form fields anymore.

Example: A filled application form PDF is ready to be submitted. Flatten it before submitting so the filled data cannot be altered by the recipient.


110. Remove Metadata

What it does: Strip all hidden metadata from your PDF — author name, software name, creation date, GPS location, and more.

Example: Before sharing a PDF publicly, remove all metadata so no one can find out who created it, when, and with which software.


111. Change Permissions

What it does: Set exactly what others can and cannot do with your PDF — allow or block printing, copying, editing, and commenting.

Example: You share a training PDF with employees. Set permissions to allow printing but block copying of text and editing — so the content cannot be stolen or modified.


112. Digital Signature

What it does: Add a cryptographic digital signature to your PDF using an X.509 certificate. This is a legally valid, tamper-proof signature.

Example: A company director adds a legally binding digital signature to an official contract PDF before sending it – far more secure than a drawn signature.


113. Validate Signature

What it does: Check whether a digital signature on a PDF is valid, genuine, and has not been tampered with. Also shows certificate details.

Example: You receive a signed contract PDF. Use Validate Signature to confirm the signature is genuine and the document has not been changed after signing.


Complete Tools Count — Final Summary

CategoryTools
Edit & Annotate20
Convert to PDF31
Convert from PDF17
Organize & Manage26
Optimize & Repair10
Secure PDF8
Grand Total112 Core Tools (130+ including variants)

Don’t skip the below part. How good would it be if you could extend this complete professional PDF toolkit to run privately, forever free, and especially offline – in short, directly on your own computer?

Well, you can do it all definitely using Docker Desktop. Before we start, and if you are unsure about what Docker Desktop is, here are the basics.

What is Docker?

Docker logo on PayalPedia

In simple words, Docker is an open-source development platform that carries a complete app virtually to build, share, and run in a small box known as the container.

Moreover, Docker Desktop offers a GUI (graphical user interface / visual interface) to take full control of these containers in a simple way with the help of menus and buttons.

BentoPDF self-hosting using Docker

To leverage the power of the BentoPDF service by default, a user dives into the free and private www.bentopdf.com, but the Docker self-hosting for it can’t be ignored, as it offers a bunch of benefits:

  1. After one-time setup, no internet is required, and it works fully offline
  2. It runs on a private network that can be shared with a home or an office team
  3. A user has full control, just like their own server
  4. No internet latency at all and faster performance
  5. It’s 100% free without any cost at at all

Pre-requisite for BentoPDF self-hosting using Docker

  • A Windows, Mac, or Linux computer
  • Internet connection (only for the first-time setup)
  • About 200–300 MB of free disc space
  • 10–15 minutes of your time

How to Setup BentoPDF Self-Hosting Using Docker Desktop

Docker Desktop, a free visual app, will be used to run BentoPDF offline.

STEP 1 — Download Docker Desktop

Docker Desktop is the free visual app we will use to run BentoPDF.

1.1 Open your browser and go to: https://www.docker.com/products/docker-desktop

1.2 Click the big “Download Docker Desktop” button.

Here, I choose ‘Download for Windows – AMD64‘ for my computer

1.3 After downloading, open the installer file and follow the on-screen setup steps

(just click Next → Next → Finish like any normal app installation).

1.4 After installation is complete, open Docker Desktop from your Start Menu (Windows) or Applications folder (Mac).

1.5 Docker Desktop will show a welcome screen. You can skip the sign-in — a Docker account is not required for this setup.

You will see the below icon (white Docker) appear in your taskbar (Windows) or menu bar (Mac). That means Docker is running.

Docker Running Status on Windows Taskbar - PayalPedia

STEP 2 — Understand the Docker Desktop Interface

When Docker Desktop opens, you will see a left sidebar with these sections:

SectionWhat It Does
ContainersShows all running and stopped apps
ImagesShows all downloaded app packages
VolumesStorage areas for apps
Dev EnvironmentsFor developers (you can ignore this)

We will mainly use the Images section and the Containers section.


STEP 3 — Search for the BentoPDF Image

An “image” in Docker is like a ready-made app package that you download once and run anytime.

3.1 In Docker Desktop, look for the search bar at the top of the window.

It usually says “Search images, containers, volumes…”

3.2 Click on the search bar and type exactly:

ghcr.io/alam00000/bentopdf-simple:latest

This is the official, free BentoPDF self-hosted image from the BentoPDF team.

3.3 In the search results, look for bentopdf-simple and click on it.

3.4 You will see an option to Pull the image. Click Pull.

BentoPDF image search on Docker Desktop - PayalPedia

Docker will now download the BentoPDF app package to your computer. This may take 1–3 minutes depending on your internet speed. You will see a progress bar.

3.5 Once the download is complete, you will see the image appear in the Images tab on the left sidebar.


STEP 4 — Run BentoPDF as a Container

Now we will “run” the image — this starts the actual BentoPDF app on your computer.

4.1 In Docker Desktop, click on Images in the left sidebar.

4.2 Find the bentopdf-simple image in the list.

4.3 Click the Run button (▶️ play icon) next to it.

4.4 A popup window will appear with settings. You need to fill in one important field:

Optional Settings → Ports → Host Port

Type 3000 in the Host Port field.

This means BentoPDF will be available at http://localhost:3000 on your computer.

Here is what the settings should look like:

SettingValue
Container Namebentopdf (or any name you like)
Host Port3000
Container Port8080 (auto-filled)

4.5 Click the Run button to start the container.

Docker will now start BentoPDF. This takes only a few seconds.


STEP 5 — Open BentoPDF in Your Browser

5.1 Open your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge — any browser works).

5.2 In the address bar, type:

http://localhost:3000

and press Enter.

5.3 BentoPDF will open fully — all 130+ tools will be available, running entirely on your own computer!

BentoPDF local hosting - PayalPedia

You are now using the self-hosted version of BentoPDF. No internet needed. No uploads to any server. Everything stays on your machine.


STEP 6 — How to Stop and Start BentoPDF

You do not need to keep BentoPDF running all the time. Here is how to manage it:

To Stop BentoPDF:

6.1 Open Docker Desktop

6.2 Click ‘Containers’ in the left sidebar

6.3 Find the bentopdf container in the list

6.4 Click the Stop button (⬛ square icon) next to it

BentoPDF will stop immediately. Your computer resources are freed.


To Start BentoPDF Again:

6.1 Open Docker Desktop

6.2 Click Containers in the left sidebar

6.3 Find the bentopdf container

6.4 Click the Start button (▶️ play icon) next to it

6.5 Open your browser and go to http://localhost:3000

BentoPDF is back up instantly — no re-downloading, no re-setup needed.


STEP 7 — How to Update BentoPDF to a Newer Version

When a new version of BentoPDF is released, updating is easy:

7.1 Open Docker Desktop → click Images

7.2 Find bentopdf-simple in your images list

7.3 Click the three-dot menu (⋮) next to the image

7.4 Select Pull — this downloads the latest version

7.5 Go to Containers and stop the current bentopdf container

7.6 Delete the old container (click the trash icon 🗑️ next to it)

7.7 Go back to Images and run the new version fresh (same steps as Step 4)


STEP 8 — How to Remove BentoPDF Completely

If you ever want to fully remove BentoPDF from your computer:

8.1 Open Docker Desktop → Containers

8.2 Stop the bentopdf container, then click the Delete icon 🗑️

8.3 Go to Images

8.4 Find bentopdf-simple, click the three-dot menu (⋮)Remove

BentoPDF is now completely removed. Clean and simple.


Quick Visual Guide — All Buttons at a Glance

Icon / ButtonLocationWhat It Does
▶️ PlayImages tab → next to imageRuns the image as a container
⬛ StopContainers tab → next to containerStops the running container
▶️ StartContainers tab → stopped containerRestarts a stopped container
🗑️ DeleteContainers or Images tabRemoves a container or image
⋮ Three dotsNext to any image or containerOpens more options
📋 LogsContainers tab → click container nameShows the app’s activity log

Troubleshooting — Common Problems and Fixes

Problem 1: Docker Desktop does not start

Solution: Make sure your computer meets the minimum requirement.

  • Windows: Windows 10 64-bit or newer
  • Mac: macOS 12 (Monterey) or newer
  • Also make sure you restarted your computer after installation.

Problem 2: Port 3000 already in use

Solution: During Step 4, choose a different Host Port number — like 3001 or 8090. Then access BentoPDF at http://localhost:3001 instead.

Problem 3: BentoPDF page does not open

Solution: Check the Containers tab in Docker Desktop. If the container shows “Stopped” status, click the Start (▶️) button to run it again.

Problem 4: Image pull fails

Solution: Check your internet connection. Also make sure Docker Desktop is fully running (the whale icon should be visible in your taskbar, not loading).

Problem 5: Advanced tools like Office-to-PDF not working

Solution: This is expected over plain HTTP. Advanced features need HTTPS. For personal and home use, all core tools will work fine at http://localhost:3000.


Self-Hosted vs. Online Version — Quick Comparison

Featurebentopdf.com (Online)Self-Hosted (Docker)
Works offline❌ Needs internet✅ Yes, fully offline
Files stay on the device✅ Yes✅ Yes
Free✅ Yes✅ Yes
Share with office team❌ Individual use✅ Yes, via local network
Setup required❌ None✅ One-time 15-min setup
Internet needed after setup✅ Yes❌ No

Final Words

BentoPDF is not just a simple online PDF tool. It is a complete professional PDF toolkit — for free, forever, with no uploads and no sign-ups.

Whether you are a student, a freelancer, a business owner, or a government employee, there is a BentoPDF tool for every situation.

Start using all 130+ tools today. 👉 www.bentopdf.com

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