URL Encoder & Decoder

Encode or decode URLs instantly to make links web-safe, transmit data securely, and prevent special character conflicts.

Input Plain Text

Output Encoded

Options

Spaces become +, safe for query strings
Keep ! # $ & ' ( ) * + , / : ; = ? @ [ ] unencoded
Automatically convert when input changes

URL Encoding Reference (Click to expand)

Common Encodings
Character Encoded Description
space%20 / +Space character
!%21Exclamation
#%23Hash/Pound
$%24Dollar
&%26Ampersand
+%2BPlus
/%2FSlash
=%3DEquals
?%3FQuestion mark
@%40At sign
When to Use
  • urlencode For query string parameters (spaces become +)
  • rawurlencode For URL path components (spaces become %20)
  • RFC 3986 For strict standard compliance
URL encoding ensures special characters are safely transmitted in URLs. Characters like spaces, &, =, and ? have special meanings in URLs and must be encoded.

What Is URL Encoding?

URL encoding, also known as percent encoding, is the process of converting special characters into a format that can be transmitted safely over the internet. URLs can only contain certain characters. When unsafe characters such as spaces, ampersands, or symbols are included, they must be encoded.

For example:

  • Space becomes %20
  • & becomes %26
  • # becomes %23

Why URL Encoding Is Important

Prevents URL Errors

Improperly formatted URLs can break web pages or APIs. Encoding ensures characters are interpreted correctly.

Ensures Browser Compatibility

Different browsers interpret special characters differently. Encoding guarantees consistency.

Required for Query Parameters

When passing values like names or search terms, encoding prevents query conflicts.

Improves Data Transmission

Encoding protects URL integrity during data exchange between client and server.

What Does the URL Encoder / Decoder Tool Do?

This tool converts plain text into URL-safe encoded format and decodes encoded URLs back into readable form. It works instantly within your browser without storing any data.

How to Use the URL Encoder

To Encode

  1. Enter your text or URL.
  2. Click the Encode button.
  3. Copy the encoded output.

To Decode

  1. Paste encoded text.
  2. Click the Decode button.
  3. View the readable result.

Example

Original URL

https://example.com/search?name=John Doe&city=New York

Encoded URL

https%3A%2F%2Fexample.com%2Fsearch%3Fname%3DJohn%20Doe%26city%3DNew%20York

Who Should Use This Tool?

Web Developers

Developers working with APIs or query strings must encode parameters correctly.

Backend Engineers

Server-side applications often require encoded URLs when sending data.

SEO Specialists

Properly formatted URLs improve crawlability and indexing.

Students & Learners

This tool helps understand how browsers interpret URLs.

Common URL Encoding Scenarios

Passing Form Data

When submitting forms, data must be encoded before transmission.

Working with REST APIs

APIs often require encoded parameters to avoid request errors.

Embedding Links in Emails

Email links must be properly encoded to prevent breaking.

Security Considerations

URL encoding is not encryption. It does not protect sensitive information. It simply ensures data is transmitted safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is URL Encoding the Same as Encryption?

No. Encoding converts characters for safe transmission. Encryption protects data confidentiality.

Does This Tool Support UTF-8?

Yes. It supports international characters and symbols.

Can Encoding Improve SEO?

Properly formatted URLs help search engines crawl content more efficiently.

Does the Tool Store My Data?

No. All operations happen instantly without storing input.

What Happens If I Don’t Encode Special Characters?

Unencoded characters can break links, APIs, or web requests.

Advantages of Using This Tool

  • Instant processing
  • Accurate encoding and decoding
  • No registration required
  • Secure browser-based operation
  • Free and easy to use