How to use this tool
- Drop in a PDF.
- Pick where the numbers should sit and which format to use.
- Set a starting number if the first page shouldn't be "1".
- Click Add Page Numbers — every page is stamped and the result downloads automatically.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Don't forget to check the margin position against your document's existing layout — a page number in the same corner as an existing header/footer element can overlap it.
- If the PDF already has page numbers baked into the design, decide whether you want two sets before adding a new one.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I start numbering from something other than 1?
- Yes — set "Start at" to whatever number the first page should show. This is useful when a document's numbering continues from a previous section, or when you want to skip a cover page in the count.
- Does this replace numbers that are already in the PDF?
- No — if your PDF already has page numbers drawn into it (as part of the original content, not a form field), this adds a new set on top rather than removing the old one. Check a preview page after downloading before using it for something formal.
- Will it work on a scanned PDF?
- Yes. Numbering is drawn as a new text layer positioned by page size, so it works the same way whether the underlying page is a scanned image or native text.
Numbering is added locally in your browser — the PDF is never uploaded.
How GetByteRush compares
Most free tools for this online work the same way: you upload your file to their server, wait, then download the result — which means your file (and often your email, for a "free" account) sits on someone else's infrastructure. Here's the actual difference:
| Feature | GetByteRush | Typical online tools |
|---|---|---|
| PDF ever leaves your device | No — edited in this tab | Yes, uploaded to process |
| Custom starting number | Yes | Sometimes |
| Multiple number formats | Yes (4 presets) | Often just "1, 2, 3" |
("Typical online tools" reflects publicly documented behavior of common free file-processing sites as of 2026 — always check a specific competitor's own privacy policy and pricing page, since these details change.)