Base64 Codec
Encode or Decode the Base64 string
About Base64 Encoder/Decoder Tool
Our Base64 Encoder/Decoder is a free online tool that allows you to encode and decode data using Base64 encoding. Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data in printable ASCII characters, making it perfect for data transmission and storage in text-based formats.
How to Use This Base64 Tool
Enter Your Text
Paste or type your text into the input field. You can encode plain text or decode Base64 strings.
Choose Operation
Click "Base64 Encode" to convert text to Base64, or "Base64 Decode" to convert Base64 back to text. Use keyboard shortcuts: Ctrl+Enter to encode, Shift+Enter to decode.
Copy Results
Click "Copy Result" to instantly copy the encoded/decoded output to your clipboard for immediate use.
Key Features
- Base64 Encoding: Convert plain text to Base64 encoded format
- Base64 Decoding: Convert Base64 encoded text back to plain text
- Error Handling: Clear error messages for invalid Base64 strings
- Copy to Clipboard: One-click copying of encoded/decoded results
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Ctrl+Enter to encode, Shift+Enter to decode
- Real-time Processing: Instant encoding and decoding
- Client-Side Processing: All operations happen in your browser for maximum privacy
Common Use Cases
Email Attachments
Base64 encoding is essential for MIME email attachments, ensuring binary files are transmitted safely through text-only email protocols.
Data URIs
Embed images and files directly in HTML/CSS using data URIs with Base64 encoding for faster page loads.
API Authentication
Encode credentials for Basic Authentication headers in HTTP requests and API calls.
Data Storage
Store binary data in databases, JSON files, or XML documents that only support text.
Understanding Base64 Encoding
Base64 encoding converts binary data into ASCII text format using a set of 64 printable characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /). This encoding scheme is particularly useful when you need to transmit binary data over media designed for text, such as email or JSON.
How it works: The algorithm takes every 3 bytes of binary data (24 bits) and splits them into 4 groups of 6 bits each. Each 6-bit group is then mapped to one of the 64 Base64 characters. If the input isn't divisible by 3, padding characters (=) are added.
Important notes: Base64 increases data size by approximately 33% due to the encoding overhead. It's not encryption - it's simply an encoding format. Never use Base64 alone for security purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Base64 encoding secure for sensitive data?
No, Base64 is not encryption - it's an encoding format. Anyone can easily decode Base64 strings. Never use Base64 alone for protecting sensitive information. Always use proper encryption algorithms like AES for security.
Why does my Base64 string end with "=" symbols?
The equals sign (=) is a padding character added when the input data length isn't divisible by 3. This ensures the output is always a multiple of 4 characters, which is required by the Base64 specification.
Can I encode images and files with this tool?
This tool is designed for text encoding. For images and files, you'll need to first convert them to a text format or use specialized tools that handle binary file uploads and conversion.
What's the difference between Base64 and URL encoding?
Base64 encoding converts binary data to ASCII text using 64 characters. URL encoding (percent encoding) converts special characters to %XX format for safe transmission in URLs. They serve different purposes and aren't interchangeable.
Is my data sent to a server when using this tool?
No, all Base64 encoding and decoding happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your data never leaves your device, ensuring complete privacy and security.
Privacy & Security
100% Client-Side Processing
Your data is processed entirely in your browser. We don't store, transmit, or have access to any information you encode or decode. All operations use native JavaScript functions (btoa/atob) for maximum security and privacy. You can even use this tool offline once the page is loaded.