Need a PDF copy of something open in a document editor, browser, or other app? CutePDF Writer adds a virtual printer to Windows, so you can create a PDF through the app’s regular print dialog.
How does the virtual printer workflow work?
Open the file in the application that created it and choose File > Print. Select CutePDF Writer from the printer list, then click Print. The print dialog sends the output to PDF creation; you can enter a file name and choose where to save it.
The source application needs to support printing. CutePDF Writer works through that application’s print command, so the document does not need to be opened in a separate PDF-creation workspace. Do not select the dialog’s “Print to File” option when sending a job to CutePDF Writer.
PDF properties and password security
PDF creation includes options for changing document properties and setting password protection. Security settings can use 256-bit AES encryption.
- Set a password and security options for a PDF.
- Adjust document properties during the creation process.
Converter and programmatic access
CutePDF Writer relies on a PS2PDF converter to turn print output into a PDF. Ghostscript is one option; the converter is installed separately and is not bundled with CutePDF Writer. The program also provides basic programmatic access for workflows that need to initiate PDF creation through software.
Pros
- Creates PDFs from applications that can print
- Lets you set document properties and password security
- Supports password protection with 256-bit AES encryption
- Offers basic programmatic access
Cons
- Requires a separate PS2PDF converter, such as Ghostscript, for PDF creation
System requirements: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, Windows 11 · 32-bit and 64-bit · A PS2PDF converter, such as Ghostscript, is required.
Can CutePDF Writer make a PDF from a web page or image?
Yes, if the browser or image application can print. Choose CutePDF Writer in its print dialog.
Does CutePDF Writer include the PDF conversion engine?
No. It requires a separate PS2PDF converter, such as Ghostscript.
Can I password-protect a PDF with CutePDF Writer?
Yes. PDF security settings include password protection with 256-bit AES encryption.