URL Encoder / Decoder – Free Online Tool
Encode any text or URL into percent-encoded format, or decode an encoded URL back to plain text. Handles query strings, spaces, and special characters.
How to Use
- 1
Select 'Encode' to encode a URL or 'Decode' to convert it back
- 2
Paste your text or URL into the input field
- 3
The result appears instantly — click Copy to use it
Frequently Asked Questions
What does URL encoding do?
URL encoding converts special characters like spaces, &, and = into percent-encoded equivalents (e.g. space becomes %20) so they can be safely transmitted in URLs.
When do I need to encode a URL?
You need URL encoding when including user input or special characters in query parameters, redirect URLs, or form submissions sent via GET requests.
What is the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?
encodeURI encodes an entire URL but leaves characters like / and ? intact. encodeURIComponent encodes everything, making it suitable for encoding individual query parameters.
Is URL decoding the reverse of encoding?
Yes. URL decoding converts percent-encoded sequences (like %20) back to their original characters, making an encoded URL human-readable again.
Encode and decode URLs
A URL encoder converts characters that are not safe in a web address — spaces, accents, symbols — into percent-encoded form like %20, and decodes them back again. This keeps links working when they contain special characters.
It is essential whenever you build or read URLs with query parameters.
When URLs need encoding
- Building links with search terms or parameters.
- Fixing broken URLs with spaces or special characters.
- Reading encoded links you have been sent.
- For binary data use the Base64 encoder; to turn a link into a QR code.
Your URLs are never logged
Encoding and decoding happen in your browser, with nothing sent to a server.