How to edit a PDF (add text, highlights and shapes) on Windows
You don't need special software to edit a PDF (add text, highlights and shapes) on Windows. FernPDF runs entirely in Edge or Chrome on Windows: open the tool, drop your file, download the result. The whole editor runs in your browser: rendering, editing and saving all happen on your device.
On Windows, you drag it into the drop zone from File Explorer, or click to open the native file picker. Once the edited PDF is ready, it downloads to your Downloads folder in File Explorer, or wherever Edge or Chrome is set to save files, check the browser's download tray (Ctrl+J).
A locked-down work laptop that blocks .exe installers or needs admin rights for new software doesn't block a browser tab, so this works on managed corporate devices where installed PDF software often can't.
No desktop installer, no admin rights, no paid software. It works on locked-down work laptops because it's just a web page. Windows 10 and 11 are both fine.
Step by step
- 1Open the Edit PDF tool in Edge or Chrome on Windows. No install, no account.
- 2Add the PDF you want to change: drag it into the drop zone from File Explorer, or click to open the native file picker.
- 3Add text boxes, highlights, shapes, images or whiteout, or switch to Edit text mode to rewrite existing lines.
- 4Click “Save” and download the edited PDF. It lands in your Downloads folder in File Explorer, or wherever Edge or Chrome is set to save files, check the browser's download tray (Ctrl+J).
Common questions
Every FernPDF tool processes files in your browser: read how the privacy model works, or verify it yourself in your network tab.