URL encoder decoder
Encode and decode URL strings with percent encoding.
A URL encoder and decoder helps you safely encode and decode text for use in URLs, ensuring special characters are properly handled. This tool is essential for web developers building URLs with query parameters, API developers encoding request parameters, SEO professionals creating URL-friendly strings, and anyone who needs to work with URL-encoded data. By using URL encoding, you can safely include special characters, spaces, and non-ASCII characters in URLs without breaking the URL structure. The tool processes data entirely in your browser, providing instant encoding and decoding without any server transmission.
What is URL encoder decoder?
URL encoding (also called percent encoding) converts special characters into a format that can be safely transmitted in URLs. It replaces unsafe characters with a percent sign (%) followed by two hexadecimal digits. For example, spaces become %20, and ampersands become %26. URL encoding is essential because URLs have a limited character set, and special characters can break URL parsing or have special meanings. The encoding ensures that all characters are represented in a way that web browsers and servers can safely process. Decoding reverses this process, converting encoded strings back to their original form.
Common use cases
- URL construction: Encode query parameters, path segments, or fragment identifiers in URLs
- API development: Encode request parameters, headers, or data for API calls that require URL encoding
- Form data handling: Encode form data for GET requests or URL-based form submissions
- SEO optimization: Create URL-friendly strings by encoding special characters in slugs or paths
- Data transmission: Encode data for safe transmission through URL-based protocols
- Debugging: Decode URL-encoded strings to understand what data is being transmitted
Limitations and common mistakes
- Invalid URL-encoded strings will result in decoding errors and cannot be processed
- The tool uses standard URL encoding (encodeURIComponent). Some edge cases with non-standard encoding may not decode correctly
- Very long strings may experience slight processing delays, though the tool handles most practical lengths efficiently
- The tool encodes all special characters. Some characters that are safe in certain URL contexts may be unnecessarily encoded
- URL encoding increases string length, which may be a consideration for very long URLs or query strings
How to use this url encode/decode
- Select the mode: Encode (text to URL encoded) or Decode (URL encoded to text)
- Enter or paste your text in the input field
- The encoding or decoding happens automatically as you type
- View the result in the output field
- Copy the encoded or decoded result using the copy button
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is URL encoding required?
URL encoding is required because URLs have a limited character set. Special characters like spaces, ampersands, question marks, and non-ASCII characters can break URL parsing or have special meanings. Encoding ensures safe transmission and proper URL structure.
Is decoding reversible?
Yes, URL decoding is fully reversible. You can encode text and then decode it back to get the original text, as long as the encoded string is valid and properly formatted.
What is URL encoding?
URL encoding (percent encoding) converts special characters into a format that can be safely transmitted in URLs. For example, spaces become %20, ampersands become %26, and special characters are represented as % followed by hexadecimal digits.
What characters are encoded?
Special characters like spaces, ampersands (&), question marks (?), equals signs (=), and non-ASCII characters are encoded. Alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9) and some safe characters like hyphens and underscores typically remain unchanged.
When should I use URL encoding?
Use URL encoding when including special characters, spaces, or non-ASCII characters in URLs, especially in query parameters, path segments, or any part of a URL that may contain user input or special characters.
Is my data secure?
Yes, all encoding and decoding happens entirely in your browser. Your data is never sent to any server, stored anywhere, or transmitted over the network, ensuring complete privacy.