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Base64 Encoder / Decoder

Encode text to Base64 or decode Base64 strings instantly. Supports Unicode and URL-safe Base64. All processing runs in your browser — no data sent anywhere.

What Is Base64 Encoding?

Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that converts binary data into a set of 64 ASCII characters. It was designed to transmit data over channels that only reliably support text content, such as email (MIME) and JSON APIs.

Each Base64 digit represents exactly 6 bits of data. Three 8-bit bytes (24 bits) are encoded as four 6-bit Base64 digits. This means the encoded output is approximately 33% larger than the original input.

Common use cases include encoding email attachments, embedding images in HTML/CSS (data URLs), and transmitting authentication tokens in HTTP headers (Basic Authentication).

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Free Online Base64 Encoder / Decoder

This Base64 encoder/decoder instantly converts text to Base64 or decodes Base64 strings back to original text. Perfect for developers working with data URLs, authentication tokens, and email attachments.

Supports Unicode characters, URL-safe Base64 encoding, and works entirely in your browser for maximum privacy.

How It Works

Enter your text in the input field, then click "Encode to Base64" to convert text to Base64, or "Decode from Base64" to convert Base64 back to text. The result appears instantly in the output field.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Base64 encoding?

Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding system that converts binary data into ASCII text format. It is commonly used to encode data for safe transmission in text-based protocols like JSON, XML, or email.

Is Base64 encoding secure?

Base64 is not encryption — it is purely an encoding method. Anyone can decode a Base64 string. For secure data transmission, use HTTPS and proper encryption algorithms.

What's the difference between encoding and encrypting?

Encoding converts data to a different format for compatibility. Encrypting converts data using a secret key so that only authorized parties can read it. Base64 is encoding, not encrypting.

Does Base64 increase the file size?

Yes. Base64 encoding increases data size by approximately 33%. Three bytes of binary data become four ASCII characters.

Can I decode Base64 without an online tool?

Yes. Most programming languages have built-in Base64 functions. Browser developer tools, Python, JavaScript, and many other languages can decode Base64 directly.

Why is it called Base64?

The name comes from the 64-character alphabet used in the encoding. It uses A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, and / to represent 6 bits of data per character (2^6 = 64).

Can Base64 encoding handle Unicode characters?

Yes. This tool uses UTF-8 encoding before Base64 conversion, so Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and other non-ASCII characters are fully supported. The decode function reverses this process correctly.

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