DevToolKit

URL Encoder/Decoder | Free Online Tool - DevToolKit

Free URL encoder and decoder. Encode special characters for URLs or decode percent-encoded strings. Supports full URL and component encoding.

Encodes all special characters — use for query parameter values.

Common URL Encodings

Space%20
!%21
#%23
$%24
&%26
'%27
(%28
)%29
*%2A
+%2B
,%2C
/%2F
:%3A
;%3B
=%3D
?%3F
@%40
[%5B
]%5D

What is URL Encoder/Decoder?

URL Encoder/Decoder is a free online tool that converts text to and from URL-encoded (percent-encoded) format. URL encoding replaces unsafe characters with a percent sign (%) followed by two hexadecimal digits. This is essential when passing special characters in URLs, query strings, and form data.

How to Use URL Encoder/Decoder

Enter text in the input area. Click "Encode" to convert special characters to percent-encoded format, or "Decode" to convert percent-encoded strings back to readable text. Choose between encodeURI (preserves URL structure) and encodeURIComponent (encodes everything except letters, digits, and a few special characters). Conversion happens in real time as you type.

How URL Encoder/Decoder Works

URL encoding converts characters outside the allowed URL character set into percent-encoded triplets (%XX). The tool uses JavaScript built-in functions: encodeURI() encodes a full URI preserving reserved characters like :, /, and ?, while encodeURIComponent() encodes all special characters. Decoding reverses the process using decodeURI() or decodeURIComponent().

Common Use Cases

  • Encoding query parameters before adding them to a URL
  • Decoding percent-encoded URLs to read their content
  • Preparing data for HTTP POST requests with application/x-www-form-urlencoded
  • Debugging URL encoding issues in web applications
  • Encoding file paths or special characters for API calls

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?

encodeURI() is designed for encoding complete URIs and preserves characters that have special meaning in URLs (like :, /, ?, #, &). encodeURIComponent() encodes everything except letters, digits, and - _ . ~ making it suitable for encoding individual parameter values.

When should I use URL encoding?

Use URL encoding whenever you need to include special characters in a URL, such as spaces, ampersands, or non-ASCII characters. It is essential for query string parameters, form submissions, and any data transmitted via URLs.

What does %20 mean in a URL?

%20 is the URL-encoded representation of a space character. When you see %20 in a URL, it means there was a space in the original text. Similarly, %26 is &, %3D is =, and %3F is ?.

Is my data secure?

Yes. All encoding and decoding happens in your browser. No data is sent to any server.

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