Base64 Encode / Decode
Encode text to Base64 or decode Base64 to text. Useful for data encoding, APIs, and file transfers. Handles Unicode characters correctly. Free online Base64 encoder decoder.
Base64 encoder decoder
Result
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What is this?
Base64 encodes binary data into ASCII text using 64 characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /). Used to embed data in JSON, URLs, or text-only protocols. Not encryption—anyone can decode it. Encoding increases size by about 33%. The tool handles Unicode correctly using proper UTF-8 encoding. Invalid Base64 input will show an error when decoding. Base64 is reversible: encode then decode gives you back the original. Never use Base64 for sensitive data—it provides no security. Use it for format conversion, not protection. The tool works entirely in your browser.
When to use
Use for embedding images in HTML/JSON, API auth tokens, or transmitting binary over text channels. Example: Encode credentials for Basic Auth. Decode API responses. Never use for passwords. Developers encode data for APIs. Decode Base64 from API responses. Embed small images in data URIs. Work with text-only systems that need to handle binary. Debug encoding issues. Essential for many integration scenarios. Remember: Base64 is encoding, not encryption. For secrets, use proper encryption. Handles Unicode and special characters.
How to use
Select encode or decode mode and paste your text. Encoding converts text to Base64. Decoding converts Base64 back to readable text. Invalid Base64 will show an error.
Frequently asked questions
- Base64 is an encoding scheme that converts binary data into ASCII text using 64 characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /). It's commonly used for encoding data in URLs, emails, and APIs.
- Base64 is useful for encoding binary data (like images) in JSON, embedding data in URLs, storing data in cookies, and transmitting data through text-only protocols.
- Yes. You can encode binary files by first converting them to Base64. However, this tool works with text input. For files, you'd need to read the file as a data URL or use a file input.
- No. Base64 is encoding, not encryption. It can be easily decoded by anyone. Never use Base64 for security—use proper encryption for sensitive data.