How to convert a PDF to an editable Word document on Windows
You don't need special software to convert a PDF to an editable Word document on Windows. FernPDF runs entirely in Edge or Chrome on Windows: open the tool, drop your file, download the result. The text layer is read in your browser and rebuilt as real, editable paragraphs. Nothing is uploaded.
On Windows, you drag it into the drop zone from File Explorer, or click to open the native file picker. Once the editable file 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 PDF to Word tool in Edge or Chrome on Windows. No install, no account.
- 2Add the PDF you want to edit: drag it into the drop zone from File Explorer, or click to open the native file picker.
- 3Choose .docx (best for editing) or .rtf (maximum compatibility).
- 4Click “Convert to Word” and download the editable file. 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.