Base64 Encode & Decode Online
Instantly encode text to Base64 or decode Base64 strings back to plain text — all in your browser.
How It Works
- 1Select whether you want to Encode plain text to Base64, or Decode a Base64 string back to text using the toggle buttons.
- 2Paste your text or Base64 string into the input box and click the Encode / Decode button.
- 3Copy the result or use Swap to pipe the output back as input for the reverse operation.
About Base64 Encoding
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that converts data into a string of 64 safe ASCII characters. It is widely used across web development — embedding images as data URIs in HTML and CSS, encoding email attachments under the MIME standard, encoding credentials in HTTP Basic Authentication headers, and representing binary payloads in JSON APIs and JWT tokens. Any system that transfers binary data over a text-only channel benefits from Base64 encoding.
Our Base64 tool handles UTF-8 text correctly — something many simple online encoders fail to do with accented characters or emoji. Both encoding and decoding run entirely in your browser using the platform's built-in APIs, meaning your data is never sent to or stored on any server. The Swap button makes it seamless to chain encode-then-decode workflows, and the copy button lets you transfer the result to your clipboard with a single click.
You may also find our URL Encode / Decode, Base64 File Converter, and Hash Generator helpful.
How to Use
- 1. Paste your plain text or an existing Base64 string into the input box.
- 2. Choose Encode to convert text to Base64, or Decode to read it back.
- 3. The result appears instantly — click Copy to take it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Base64 encoding?
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data using 64 ASCII characters. It is widely used in email attachments, data URIs, JWT tokens, and API payloads to safely transmit binary data over text-based protocols.
When should I use Base64 encoding?
Use Base64 when embedding images in CSS/HTML as data URIs, encoding file attachments in emails, working with JWT authentication tokens, or passing binary data through systems that only support text.
Is Base64 encryption?
No. Base64 is encoding, not encryption. It does not protect your data — anyone can decode it. For security, use proper encryption algorithms like AES.
Why does my decode fail?
Base64 strings must be a multiple of 4 characters. Extra whitespace, newlines, or non-Base64 characters (anything outside A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /, =) will cause an error.
Is my data sent to any server?
No. All encoding and decoding happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your data never leaves your device.
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