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Base64 Encoder and Decoder

Encode text to Base64 or decode Base64 back to text. Full Unicode support and URL-safe Base64 variants included.

Base64 is an encoding, not encryption. Anyone can decode it — never use it to hide secrets.

About Base64 Encoder

Base64 represents binary data using 64 printable ASCII characters, which lets you carry it safely through systems that only accept text — JSON payloads, HTTP headers, data URIs and email attachments. This tool converts in both directions and handles Unicode correctly.

How to use it

  1. Paste text or Base64 into the input.
  2. Pick Encode or Decode.
  3. Switch on URL-safe mode if the value goes into a query string.
  4. Copy the result.

Frequently asked questions

Is Base64 encryption?

No, and this matters. Base64 is reversible by anyone with no key required. It is an encoding for safe transport, never a way to protect secrets.

What is URL-safe Base64?

A variant that swaps + for - and / for _ so the value survives being placed in a URL or filename without percent-encoding. It is used by JWTs.

Why does my decoded text look wrong?

Usually the input was truncated or had whitespace inserted by an email client. Base64 length must be a multiple of four, padded with = if needed.

In-depth reads that go beyond the calculator.