This FAQ explains how Password Protection works, what happens if you forget your password, and where protected notebooks are available.
Password Protection does not encrypt notebooks. You cannot reset a forgotten password, and notebooks that you cannot unlock are not recoverable. The feature is currently available only on Goodnotes for iOS and iPadOS.
How does Password Protection work?
Password Protection adds a secure access layer to selected notebooks. Anyone opening a protected notebook must unlock it with the universal Goodnotes password or supported device authentication.
Can I set a different password for each notebook?
No. Goodnotes uses one universal password for all notebooks you choose to protect.
Can I use Face ID or Touch ID to unlock notebooks?
Yes. Face ID or Touch ID can unlock protected notebooks without entering the password each time. Enable device authentication in Document Privacy while you still know your current password.
Goodnotes does not process your biometric data. Your device manages it according to Apple’s biometric privacy information.
What happens if I forget my password?
You cannot reset a forgotten Password Protection password. If Face ID or Touch ID was already enabled, use it to unlock protected notebooks, then export or duplicate them to create unprotected copies.
If device authentication was not enabled and you cannot remember the password, you cannot access or recover the locked notebooks.
Does Password Protection apply across devices?
Yes. Protecting a notebook on one device protects it on other supported devices signed in to the same Goodnotes account. The password and hint are the same on each device.
Why can’t I open a protected notebook on Android, Windows, or Web?
Password Protection is currently available only on Goodnotes for iOS and iPadOS. Protected notebooks cannot currently be opened in Goodnotes for Android, Windows, or Web.
Can I change my password?
- Open the Goodnotes menu in Library View.
- Select “Settings > Document Privacy > Change Password”.
- Enter your current password, then set the new password.
Why are protected notebooks missing from search results?
Protected notebooks do not appear in Library Search results while they are locked. Unlock the notebook before searching for its content.
See also: Protect notebooks with Password Protection.