Base64 Encoder / Decoder
A Base64 encoder/decoder is a free online tool that converts text or binary data into Base64 format and back β often used in APIs, emails, and data URIs.
How to use Base64 Encoder / Decoder
- Choose mode β Select Encode or Decode.
- Enter text β Paste your plain text or Base64 string.
- Copy result β The converted output appears instantly.
Key features
- Encode & decode
- Handles Unicode
- One-click copy
- 100% client-side
- Works offline
What is Base64?
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data using 64 printable ASCII characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /). It's used when data needs to be transmitted through channels that only support text β email attachments (MIME), data URIs in HTML/CSS, JSON Web Tokens, and basic auth headers all use Base64.
Encoding vs. Encryption
Base64 is often confused with encryption. They're completely different. Encryption scrambles data with a key so only the key holder can read it. Base64 is just a reversible transformation β anyone can decode it. Never use Base64 to protect sensitive data. Use it only for transport and formatting.
Common Uses
Embedding small images in HTML or CSS as data URIs β eliminates HTTP requests. Encoding JWT tokens for APIs. Transferring binary files through email (via MIME). Storing complex data in text-only fields. Setting HTTP basic auth headers. Our tool handles all of these with instant encoding and decoding.
Privacy and Speed
Online Base64 tools are often used with sensitive data like API keys or credentials. Uploading that to a server is a security risk. Our tool encodes and decodes entirely in your browser β nothing is transmitted. It also works offline once loaded.
Pro tips
- Base64 increases size by ~33% β use only when needed
- For images, use small Base64 encodes only for icons under 10KB
- Never store passwords in Base64 β use proper hashing
- Decode JWTs carefully to inspect their claims
Common use cases
- Embedding images in HTML/CSS
- Debugging API requests with Base64 headers
- Decoding JWT tokens
- Encoding data for URL parameters
- Storing small binary blobs in text fields
Frequently asked questions
What is Base64?+
Base64 is a way to encode binary data as ASCII text, often used to safely transmit data over text-based protocols.
Is Base64 encryption?+
No. Base64 is encoding, not encryption β anyone can decode it.
Does it support emojis?+
Yes, it supports full Unicode including emojis.
Is it safe?+
Yes, everything runs in your browser.
Is it free?+
Yes, 100% free.
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