Base64 Encode & Decode Online

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Base64 output
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Free Online Base64 Encoder and Decoder

Paste any text in the input box and it is encoded to Base64 instantly. Switch to Decode mode to convert a Base64 string back to plain text. Use the Swap button to flip input and output. All processing happens in your browser — nothing is sent to a server.

What is Base64?

Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data using 64 printable ASCII characters (A–Z, a–z, 0–9, + and /). It was designed to allow binary content to pass safely through text-based systems that cannot handle raw binary, such as email protocols and HTTP headers.

Common uses for Base64 encoding

Base64 is used to embed images directly in HTML or CSS as data URIs, encode JWT (JSON Web Token) payloads, transmit binary data in JSON APIs, encode email attachments in MIME format, and store binary content in XML or environment variables.

Base64 vs encryption

Base64 is not encryption. It provides zero security — anyone can decode a Base64 string in seconds. It is purely an encoding format for safe binary-to-text transmission. Do not use it to protect sensitive data.

Frequently asked questions

What is Base64 encoding?
Base64 converts binary or text data into a string of 64 printable ASCII characters. It is used to safely transmit data over text-based protocols and embed binary content in text formats like HTML and JSON.
Does Base64 compress data?
No. Base64 encoding increases data size by about 33%. It is not a compression algorithm — it is purely an encoding scheme.
Is Base64 the same as encryption?
No. Base64 is completely reversible and provides no security. Anyone can decode it instantly. Do not use it to hide sensitive information.
Does this tool save my data?
No. All encoding and decoding happens in your browser. Nothing is sent to any server.