URL Encode & Decode Online
Convert special characters to percent-encoded URL format and back — instantly in your browser.
How It Works
- 1Select Encode to convert special characters to percent-encoded format, or Decode to convert them back.
- 2Paste your URL string or percent-encoded text into the input field and click the button.
- 3Copy the result and use it in your URLs, API requests, or debugging sessions.
About URL Encoding
URL encoding, also known as percent-encoding, converts characters that are not allowed or are reserved in URLs into a safe representation using a percent sign followed by two hexadecimal digits. For example, a space becomes %20, an ampersand becomes %26, and an equals sign becomes %3D. This is essential for passing query parameters, form data, and user-generated content safely through HTTP requests without breaking the URL structure.
Our tool uses JavaScript's encodeURIComponent function, which encodes all characters except letters, digits, and the unreserved characters — making it ideal for encoding individual query parameter values. Decoding is equally useful: when reading server logs, debugging redirects, or inspecting third-party API responses, percent-encoded strings can be hard to read at a glance. Our decoder converts them back to human-readable form instantly. All processing happens client-side, keeping your data completely private.
You may also find our Base64 Encode / Decode, HTML Encode / Decode, and URL Slug Generator helpful.
How to Use
- 1. Paste the URL or query string you want to process.
- 2. Choose Encode to percent-encode special characters, or Decode to reverse it.
- 3. Copy the result.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is URL encoding?
URL encoding (percent-encoding) converts characters that are not allowed in URLs into a safe format using % followed by two hex digits. For example, spaces become %20 and & becomes %26.
What is the difference between encode and encodeURIComponent?
encodeURI encodes a full URL, preserving characters like /, ?, &. encodeURIComponent encodes individual query parameter values and encodes those special characters too. Our tool uses encodeURIComponent for maximum compatibility.
Why do I need URL encoding?
Special characters in query strings can break URLs if not encoded. For example, a search query with spaces, &, or = must be encoded so the server can parse parameters correctly.
When would URL decoding be useful?
When debugging API requests, reading server logs, or working with redirect URLs that contain percent-encoded parameters you need to read in human-readable form.
Does this tool store my URLs?
No. All processing is done locally in your browser. Nothing is sent to any server.
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