URL Encoder/Decoder - Encode Decode URLs
Encode URLs, query parameters, and special characters with this free online URL encoder/decoder tool.
About URL Encoding
URL encoding, also known as percent-encoding, is a mechanism for encoding information in a Uniform Resource Identifier (URI). It replaces unsafe ASCII characters with a percent sign followed by two hexadecimal digits representing the character code. This encoding is essential for ensuring that URLs can be reliably transmitted across the internet without ambiguity or corruption.
Not all characters are permitted in URLs. According to the RFC 3986 specification, only unreserved characters (letters, digits, hyphens, underscores, periods, and tildes) do not need encoding. Reserved characters like spaces, slashes, question marks, and ampersands must be percent-encoded when they appear in unintended positions within a URL. For instance, a space in a search query becomes %20, and an ampersand becomes %26.
URL encoding is critical in web development for constructing valid query strings, handling form submissions, and ensuring that special characters in user input do not break URL structures. Our URL encoder/decoder tool processes all encoding and decoding client-side, meaning your data stays private and is never transmitted to external servers. Whether you need to encode a complete URL or individual query parameters, our tool provides instant and accurate results.
How to Use the URL Encoder/Decoder
To encode a URL or text, simply paste your content into the input field and click the Encode button. The tool will convert all special characters to their percent-encoded equivalents, making the URL safe for transmission. You can then copy the encoded result to your clipboard using the Copy button.
To decode an encoded URL, paste the percent-encoded string into the same input field and click the Decode button. The tool will reverse the encoding process and display the original readable text or URL. This is particularly useful when working with URLs from APIs, analyzing tracking parameters, or debugging web application redirects.
Our tool supports encoding and decoding of both component-level encoding (individual parts of a URL) and full URL encoding. This flexibility makes it useful for developers working with REST APIs, form data, redirect URLs, and any scenario where URL parameters need to be properly encoded for safe HTTP transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions
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