Base64 Encoder/Decoder - Convert Text to Base64
Free Base64 encoder and decoder with UTF-8 support. Convert text to Base64 and decode Base64 strings back to text. Perfect for data transmission and storage with complete privacy protection.
About Base64 Encoding
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data in an ASCII string format. It's commonly used for:
- Email attachments (MIME)
- Data URLs in web development
- API data transmission
- Storing binary data in text format
- Configuration files
Encoding Details
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz0123456789+/
Uses '=' for padding when needed
~33% larger than original data
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Choose your operation: encoding (text to Base64) or decoding (Base64 to text)
- Enter your text in the input field - the tool supports all Unicode characters
- The conversion happens automatically as you type - no need to click any buttons
- Use the "Switch" button to change between encoding and decoding modes
- Copy the output using the copy button or download it as a text file
- Use "Clear All" to reset both input and output fields for a fresh start
Advanced Features
- Bidirectional Conversion: Easily switch between encoding and decoding with one click
- Unicode Support: Full UTF-8 support for international characters and emojis
- Real-time Processing: Instant conversion as you type with automatic error detection
- File Download: Save your results as text files for later use
- Character Count: Monitor input and output lengths for data size planning
Key Benefits
- Data Safety: Convert binary data to text format for safe transmission through text-only channels
- Web Development: Embed images and files directly in HTML, CSS, or JavaScript using data URLs
- API Integration: Encode binary data for JSON APIs that don't support binary formats
- Email Compatibility: MIME encoding for email attachments and content
- Privacy Protection: All processing happens locally - your data never leaves your browser
Real-World Applications
- Web Development: Create data URLs for images, fonts, and other assets to reduce HTTP requests
- Configuration Files: Store binary data in XML, JSON, or YAML configuration files
- Database Storage: Store binary data in text-based database fields
- Email Systems: Encode attachments for MIME-compliant email transmission
- API Development: Transfer binary data through REST APIs that only support text
- Legacy System Integration: Interface with older systems that require text-based data exchange
What is Base64 encoding used for?
Base64 encoding converts binary data into text format using only printable ASCII characters. It's commonly used for email attachments, data URLs in web development, API data transmission, and storing binary data in text-based formats like JSON or XML.
Does Base64 encoding provide security or encryption?
No, Base64 is not encryption or security - it's simply an encoding method. Anyone can easily decode Base64 strings back to their original form. It's designed for data compatibility, not security. Never use Base64 alone to protect sensitive information.
Why does Base64 make data larger?
Base64 increases data size by approximately 33% because it uses 6 bits per character instead of 8 bits. This trade-off ensures compatibility with text-only systems and prevents data corruption during transmission through systems that modify binary data.
Can I encode any type of file or data?
This tool is designed for text input with full Unicode support. For binary files (images, documents, etc.), you would need to first convert them to binary data. Our tool focuses on text encoding/decoding with proper UTF-8 character handling.
Base64 Examples
Hello, World! 👋SGVsbG8sIFdvcmxkISDwn5GNThe quick brown foxVGhlIHF1aWNrIGJyb3duIGZveA==