URL Encoder

Encode or decode URLs and query string parameters

What is a URL Encoder/Decoder?

A URL encoder/decoder is a free online tool for encoding and decoding URLs and query parameters. It supports both component encoding and full URI encoding modes. All processing happens in the browser.

How to encode a URL

Paste the URL or text into the input field. Select the encode mode (component or full URI). The tool converts special characters into percent-encoded format.

How to decode a URL

Paste the encoded URL into the input field. Select the decode mode. The tool converts percent-encoded characters back to their original format.

Understanding the encoding modes

Component encoding (encodeURIComponent) encodes all characters except alphanumerics and a few special characters. Full URI encoding (encodeURI) preserves URL structure characters and only encodes characters that are not allowed in URLs.

Common use cases

  • Encoding URL query parameters
  • Encoding URL path segments
  • Safely including user input in URLs
  • Decoding received URLs
  • Preparing parameters for API requests

Frequently Asked Questions

What is URL encoding?+
URL encoding (also called percent-encoding) converts special characters into a format of % followed by two hexadecimal digits. For example, a space becomes %20. This is necessary to safely transmit characters in URLs.
How do I encode a URL?+
Paste the URL or text into the input field. Select the encode mode. The tool converts special characters into their percent-encoded equivalents.
How do I decode a URL?+
Paste the encoded URL into the input field. Select the decode mode. The tool converts percent-encoded characters back to their original format.
What is the difference between component encoding and full URI encoding?+
Component encoding (encodeURIComponent) encodes all characters except alphanumerics and -_.!~*'(). Full URI encoding (encodeURI) does not encode characters that are already valid in URLs, such as :/?#[]@.
Why is URL encoding needed?+
URLs can only use a subset of ASCII characters. URL encoding lets you safely include spaces, Unicode characters and special characters that could conflict with URL syntax.
Is URL encoding safe?+
Yes. This tool encodes and decodes URLs locally in the browser. No data is sent to any server.

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URL Encoder — free online url encoder, url decoder, url encoding, url decoding, encode url, decode url, query parameter encoding, uri encoder. No signup required. Works in your browser.