Base64 vs URL encoding?

Different purposes—see Base64 tool for binary-to-text transport.

URL Encoder & Decoder

Encode and decode URLs instantly. Convert special characters and Unicode to URL-safe format and back.

Enter URL or Text to Encode

Encoding Type

Output Format

Enter Encoded URL to Decode

Decoding Type

Output Format

URL Info

Characters: 0

Encoded Characters: 0

Special Characters: 0

Quick Actions

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Tips

• URL encoding converts special characters to %XX format
• Use for query parameters and form data
• Handles Unicode and international characters
• Essential for web development and APIs
• Safe for email links and social sharing

URL encoding: RFC 3986, query strings, and APIs

Percent-encoding makes reserved characters safe inside URLs and form bodies. Developers use encoders when crafting curl commands, debugging redirect chains, or building deep links with many parameters.

Encoding is reversible and deterministic—unlike hashing.

Practical tips

Encode parameter values, not always whole URLs.
Watch plus vs %20 for spaces in application/x-www-form-urlencoded.
Decode twice only when middleware double-encoded—fix root cause.
Log encoded and decoded variants separately in support tickets.

Common questions

Encode full URL?: Usually you encode components; encoding an entire URL breaks schemes.
Unicode paths?: Internationalized domain names use Punycode separately from path encoding.
Base64 vs URL encoding?: Different purposes—see Base64 tool for binary-to-text transport.

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