URL Encoder/Decoder

Data & Encoding | Updated January 1, 1970

Encode and decode URLs, query strings, and special characters for use in links, redirects, APIs, and web applications.

Enter URL

Result:

The URL Encoder / Decoder tool allows you to convert text into a format that can be transmitted over the internet. URLs can only be sent over the web using a limited set of ASCII characters, which means any spaces, symbols, or special characters must be encoded into a compatible format. This process is known as percent-encoding, where unsafe characters are replaced with a "%" followed by their hexadecimal value.

For example, a space is encoded as %20, while characters like "&", "=", and "?" are encoded to prevent them from interfering with query parameters in a URL. Without proper encoding, URLs can break, data can be misinterpreted, or requests may fail entirely, especially when working with APIs, form submissions, or dynamic links.

You can use this tool to encode query string values before sending them in HTTP requests, sanitize user input for URLs, or debug issues where encoded values appear unreadable. On the other hand, decoding helps convert encoded URLs back into a human-readable format, making it easier to understand parameters, troubleshoot bugs, and inspect data being passed between systems.

URL Encoder / Decoder FAQs

Learn how URL encoding works, when encoded URLs are required, and how to convert URLs, query strings, and special characters for use in web applications, APIs, forms, and redirects

1. What is URL encoding?

URL encoding converts characters that are not safe for URLs into a percent-encoded format. This ensures browsers, servers, and applications can correctly interpret special characters, spaces, and symbols.
2. When should I use URL encoding?

You should encode URLs when working with query parameters, API requests, form submissions, redirects, tracking links, or any situation where special characters may affect URL parsing.
3. What is URL decoding?

URL decoding reverses percent encoding and converts encoded values back into their original readable form. This is useful when inspecting URLs, debugging applications, or reviewing data received from external systems.
4. Why do some URLs contain %20 and other encoded characters?

Characters such as spaces, ampersands, slashes, and question marks have special meaning in URLs. Encoding replaces them with a standardized format so browsers and servers can process them safely.
5. Can URL encoding change the destination of a URL?

No. Encoding does not change the destination itself. It simply ensures the URL and its parameters are transmitted correctly without being misinterpreted by browsers or servers.
6. What's the difference between encoding a full URL and encoding URL parameters?

Encoding a full URL converts every reserved character into its encoded equivalent. Encoding only parameters preserves the URL structure while safely encoding parameter values. Both approaches are useful depending on how the URL will be used.

URL Encoder/Decoder

URL Encoder / Decoder FAQs

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