Password-protect a document category Pro

FileDeck Pro can require a password before a category of documents can be seen or downloaded. You set the password in the Password protect (FileDeck) field on the category edit screen, and visitors enter it once — their session remembers it, so they are not asked again on every download. It is the right choice for semi-public material where visitors do not have site accounts.

FileDeck Pro — this feature is included in all Pro plans. See pricing

Set or change the password

1. Go to Documents → Document Categories and edit the category.
2. In the Password protect (FileDeck) field, enter a password. To change an existing password, enter a new one; to keep the current password, leave the field blank when you save.
3. Save the category. Every document in the category is now covered by the same password.

FileDeck stores the password securely (hashed), so it is never kept or displayed in plain text — keep your own record of what you set. To protect a single document, put it in its own category and password-protect that category.

What visitors experience

When a visitor reaches password-protected content, FileDeck asks for the password. After a correct entry, the documents unlock — they download normally — and the visitor’s session remembers the password for the rest of their visit. They will be asked again in a new session. Until they unlock, the documents show with a padlock in listings by default; the Hide restricted documents entirely toggle under Documents → Settings → Features removes them from listings instead.

Typical uses: board packs for committee members, member newsletters, event materials shared with attendees.

Know the limits of a shared password

Everyone uses the same password, so you cannot tell who accessed a document, and anyone the password is forwarded to gets in. If you need real per-person control, use role restriction instead. For protection of the file’s direct URL, pair passwords with file protection, which serves protected files only through signed links that expire after 15 minutes.

FAQ

How long does the unlock last?

For the visitor’s session. Once they enter the password correctly, they are not asked again until they return in a new session.

How do I change or keep the password?

Edit the category and type a new password into the Password protect (FileDeck) field to change it; leave the field blank to keep the current one. Visitors need the new password the next time they are prompted.

Can I see who used the password?

No. Password access is anonymous by design. Use role restriction if you need access tied to individual user accounts.

Does the password also block the file’s direct URL?

The password controls the library and the download endpoint. Direct URLs are handled by file protection, which moves protected files out of the public uploads folder — see how signed download links work.