The best PDF version depends on your needs and the purpose of your PDF. If you need to create a PDF that is compatible with a wide range of devices and software, then you should use PDF 2.0. PDF 2.0 is the latest version of the PDF standard, and it is supported by most major PDF readers and creators. Factors that are considered in choosing a PDF version, depend on the compatibility, features and security issues. The blog will take you through the processes one can consider when it comes to choosing the right PDF version.

Compatibility

Compatibility is the most important factor to consider when choosing a PDF version. If you need to create a PDF that will be used by a wide range of people, you should choose a version that is widely supported. For example, PDF 1.7 is widely supported by most devices and software. If you need to create a PDF that will be used for a specific purpose, such as an electronic form or a presentation, you may need to choose a version that supports the features you need. For example, if you need to create an electronic form, you will need to choose a version that supports AcroForms. PDF compatibility is key to PDF creation. When creating a PDF document, it is important to choose a PDF version that is compatible with the devices and software that will be used to open and view the document. Different versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader support different PDF standards. For example, Adobe Acrobat Reader DC supports PDF 1.7, while older versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader may only support PDF 1.4 or PDF 1.5.

Features

Furthermore, features are another important factor to consider when choosing a PDF version. PDF versions differ in the features they support. For example, PDF 1.3 supports smooth shading, annotations, digital signatures, and JavaScript actions, while PDF 1.2 does not. If you need to create a PDF that includes features such as smooth shading or JavaScript actions, you will need to choose a version that supports those features. When choosing a PDF version, it is important to consider the features you need and the people who will be using the PDF. If you are unsure which PDF version to choose, it is always best to consult with the people who will be using the PDF.

Security

Security is also an important factor to consider when choosing a PDF version. PDF versions differ in the security features they support. For example, PDF 1.7 supports AES-256 encryption, while PDF 1.2 does not. If you need to create a PDF that contains sensitive information, you will need to choose a version that supports the security features you need. When it comes to controlling the document, when can control, who can view the content, who can print the document, and who can modify the content, among other things? Sensitive information needs to be protected especially those of companies. Security measures on the documents can include password protection, watermarking, and document tracking, among others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PDF is a remarkably versatile file format. It is forward compatible, meaning that you can open an old PDF 1.0 file in the latest version of Adobe Reader. This makes PDF a good choice for storing and sharing documents that need to be accessible over time. Besides its compatibility, PDF offers several advantages which include portability, security, flexibility and accessibility. PDF is also backwards compatible, meaning that a recent PDF 1.7 file can be opened by Acrobat 4. However, Acrobat 4 will ignore any new features in the PDF 1.7 file and may not be able to display page elements that use those features.