You open an important Word file and get a prompt for a password you set months ago and no longer remember. Retyping the document isn't an option, and guessing is a waste of an afternoon. Word Password Recovery from Perfect Data Solutions is built for this one job: finding the password on a protected .doc file so you can open it again.
Quick facts
- Platform: Windows 10, 8 and 7 (32 bit and 64 bit), plus Windows Server
- Price: $19 for the personal licence (listed as reduced from $49); higher-priced licences exist for other uses
- Trial: a free demo walks you through the whole recovery process
- Guarantee: 30 days money back
- Licence delivery: the key is sent automatically to your purchase email address
Key features
Recover the password for opening or for modifying a file
The tool restores passwords set to open a document and passwords set to modify it, so both kinds of lock are covered.
Choose between Dictionary and Brute Force attacks
You pick one of two methods. A dictionary attack tries words from a list. A brute force attack works through character combinations. You can watch the recovery process as it runs, which gives you a hint about the password.
No limit on password length
Long passwords are not a problem. The vendor says the tool recovers a Word password of any length.
Passwords with special characters, numbers and other languages
The tool handles multilingual passwords, special characters and purely numeric passwords.
Works on your document without changing it
The vendor states the password is extracted from the file without affecting your document. A simple graphical interface guides you through the steps.
Who it's for
It suits anyone locked out of their own .doc files: a forgotten password on an old report, a file inherited from a colleague, or a document set up with a modify password you no longer have. The page also describes support for .docx files.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Single-purpose, with simple steps and a graphical interface
- Two recovery methods to choose from
- Free demo to try the process before buying
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Low-cost personal licence
Cons
- Windows only
- Brute force recovery can take a long time on long, complex passwords
- Corporate use needs a higher-priced licence
FAQs
Can I try it before paying?
Yes. The free demo shows you the whole password recovery process so you can learn how the software works before you buy the full version.
Does it handle long passwords?
The vendor says there is no limit on password length.
What do I need to install it?
You need a Windows PC with .NET Framework 3.5 or above, about 500 MB of free disk space and 4 GB of RAM.
Which licence should I pick?
The personal licence is the lowest-priced option. Separate licences are offered at higher prices for other uses.
System requirements
- Operating system: Windows 10, 8, 7 (32 bit or 64 bit) and Windows Server
- Processor: Pentium class or better
- Memory: 4 GB RAM
- Disk space: 500 MB free
- Prerequisite: Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 or above