Base64 Encoder & Decoder
Encoding: Converts your text into Base64 format. This is useful for encoding data that needs to be transmitted or stored in environments that only support text.
About Base64 Encoder & Decoder
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data in an ASCII string format. This tool allows you to encode text to Base64 or decode Base64 strings back to plain text. It's commonly used in web development for encoding images, sending data over APIs, email attachments, and storing complex data in JSON or XML. All encoding and decoding happens in your browser for complete privacy.
How to Use
- Select "Encode" mode (selected by default).
- Type or paste your text into the input field.
- The tool will automatically encode your text to Base64.
- Click "Copy" to copy the Base64 string to your clipboard.
Encode Text to Base64
- Select "Decode" mode.
- Paste your Base64 string into the input field.
- The tool will automatically decode it to plain text.
- Click "Copy" to copy the decoded text to your clipboard.
Decode Base64 to Text
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Base64 encoding?
Base64 is a way to encode binary data (like images, files, or special characters) into ASCII text format using only 64 characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /). This makes it safe to transmit data over systems that only support text, such as email or JSON.
When should I use Base64 encoding?
Common uses include: embedding images in HTML/CSS (data URLs), encoding authentication credentials in HTTP headers, transmitting binary data over JSON APIs, storing complex data in cookies or localStorage, and encoding email attachments in MIME format.
Does Base64 encoding encrypt my data?
No! Base64 encoding is NOT encryption. It only converts data to a different format and can be easily decoded by anyone. Never use Base64 alone to protect sensitive information. Use proper encryption methods for security.
Why does my encoded text look longer than the original?
Base64 encoding increases the size of data by approximately 33%. This is because it uses only 64 safe ASCII characters to represent binary data, which requires more characters to represent the same amount of information.
What does "Invalid Base64 string" mean?
This error appears when trying to decode text that isn't valid Base64 format. Base64 strings only contain A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /, and = characters. If your string contains other characters or isn't properly formatted, decoding will fail.
Can I encode special characters and emojis?
Yes! This tool properly handles UTF-8 characters, including special characters, accented letters, and emojis. The encoding process first converts the text to UTF-8 bytes, then encodes those bytes to Base64.
What is the "Switch" button for?
The Switch button swaps the input and output, and toggles between encode and decode modes. This is useful when you want to quickly decode something you just encoded, or verify that encoding and decoding work correctly.
Is my data secure?
Yes! All encoding and decoding happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your data is never sent to any server, ensuring complete privacy. However, remember that Base64 is not encryption and doesn't provide security.