Base64 Encoder/Decoder
About this Tool
This tool provides a simple way to encode plain text into a Base64 string and decode Base64 strings back to their original plain text form. Base64 encoding is commonly used to transmit data over media that are designed to handle text, solving issues with binary data in text-based protocols like email or JSON.
How does it work? Encoding converts binary data to a 64-character alphabet (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /). Decoding reverses this. The tool uses browser APIs for accurate handling of UTF-8.
- Enter your text or Base64 string into the input area.
- Click "Encode" to convert your text to Base64.
- Click "Decode" to convert a Base64 string back to plain text.
- The result will be displayed in the output area.
- Web devs embed images in CSS as Base64 to reduce requests.
- API users encode auth credentials in HTTP headers.
- Email systems encode attachments for safe transmission.
- Fast and reliable encoding and decoding.
- Handles multi-byte characters (UTF-8) correctly.
- Provides error handling for invalid Base64 strings.
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme from the 1980s, part of MIME standards. It groups 3 bytes into 4 characters, padding as needed, ensuring safe transport over 7-bit channels.
Why use Base64 instead of hex?
Base64 is more compact, using 64 chars vs. hex's 16.
Does it increase data size?
Yes, by about 33% due to encoding overhead.
Can it handle binary files?
Yes, but this version focuses on text; images have separate tools.
All calculations and data processing for this tool are performed locally in your browser. We do not send any of your data to our servers, ensuring your information remains private and secure.