🔄 Base64 Encode/Decode

Encode text to Base64 or decode Base64 strings back to plain text

How to Use Base64 Encode/Decode

Convert text to Base64 encoding or decode Base64 strings back to plain text. Essential for data transmission, APIs, and web development.

  1. Paste your text or Base64 string in the text area
  2. Click "Encode" to convert text to Base64
  3. Click "Decode" to convert Base64 back to text
  4. Copy the result using the copy button

🔄 What is Base64?

Base64 is an encoding scheme that converts binary data into ASCII text format. It's commonly used for:

  • Email Attachments: Encoding files for email transmission
  • Data URLs: Embedding images in HTML/CSS
  • API Authentication: Basic authentication headers
  • Data Storage: Storing binary data in text-based formats
  • URL Parameters: Safely passing data in URLs

✨ Features

  • ✅ Fast encoding and decoding
  • ✅ Handles large text and data
  • ✅ Shows size before and after conversion
  • ✅ Validates Base64 strings before decoding
  • ✅ Works offline - client-side processing

💡 Common Use Cases

  • Encoding credentials for HTTP Basic Auth
  • Creating data URLs for images
  • Encoding JSON for URL parameters
  • Decoding Base64-encoded API responses
  • Converting binary files to text format

⚠️ Important Notes

  • Base64 is encoding, not encryption - it doesn't provide security
  • Encoded data is about 33% larger than the original
  • Use proper encryption for sensitive data
  • Base64 is case-sensitive

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Base64 encoding?

Base64 is a method of encoding binary data into ASCII text. It uses 64 printable characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /) to represent data, making it safe for transmission over text-based protocols.

Is Base64 encryption?

No! Base64 is encoding, not encryption. Anyone can decode Base64 data. Never use it to protect sensitive information - use proper encryption instead.

Why is Base64 encoded data larger?

Base64 encoding increases data size by approximately 33% because it uses 6 bits per character instead of 8 bits, requiring more characters to represent the same data.

What are common Base64 uses?

Base64 is commonly used for email attachments, data URLs in HTML/CSS, API authentication headers, embedding images, and transmitting binary data over text-based protocols.

Can I encode images with Base64?

Yes! You can encode image files to Base64, which is useful for data URLs. However, for this tool, you would need to first convert the image to a binary string or use a dedicated image-to-base64 converter.