Always ToolsURL Encoder and Decoder Online
Encode special characters for URLs or decode percent-encoded strings instantly in your browser.
Free online URL encoder and decoder
This URL encoder and decoder converts text to percent-encoded URL components and decodes URL-encoded strings back to readable text. It is useful for query parameters, callback URLs, API testing, and debugging copied links.
Encoded: hello%20world%3Fx%3D1%26y%3D2
When to use URL encoding
- Encode spaces, ampersands, question marks, and non-ASCII characters in query parameters.
- Decode percent-encoded logs, redirect URLs, and API payloads.
- Check how JavaScript
encodeURIComponentrepresents a value.
encodeURI vs encodeURIComponent
encodeURIComponent is best for individual query parameter values because it escapes reserved characters such as &, =, and ?. encodeURI is used for a full URL and leaves more URL syntax characters unchanged.
FAQ
What is URL encoding?
URL encoding converts reserved or unsafe characters into percent-encoded sequences so they can be safely included in a URL.
What does %20 mean?
%20 is the percent-encoded representation of a space character.
Is URL encoding the same as Base64?
No. URL encoding escapes characters for URLs; Base64 represents binary data as text.