URL Encoder / Decoder
Encode or decode URLs with percent-encoding. Handles query strings, special characters, and Unicode.
URL encoding converts special characters into percent-encoded sequences so they can travel safely in query strings, paths, and API parameters. Paste a URL or string and get the encoded version instantly.
How to use URL Encoder / Decoder
- Paste the URL or text you want to encode into the input field.
- Click Encode to percent-encode the input, or Decode to reverse an encoded string back.
- Copy the result into your query string, API call, or href attribute.
Features
- Encodes reserved characters like ?, &, =, and spaces according to RFC 3986.
- Handles Unicode characters including CJK text and emoji.
- Bidirectional: encode raw URLs or decode existing percent-encoded strings.
- Runs entirely in the browser with no server round-trip.
FAQ
What is the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?
encodeURI keeps URL-structural characters like :, /, ?, and # intact so the overall URL stays valid. encodeURIComponent encodes everything, including those structural characters, which is what you want for query parameter values.
Should I encode spaces as %20 or +?
Both work in query strings, but %20 is the correct encoding for paths. The + encoding for spaces is a legacy from application/x-www-form-urlencoded and only applies within query strings.
Is this tool safe for sensitive data?
Yes, encoding runs locally in your browser. Nothing is uploaded. That said, URL encoding is not encryption — encoded strings are trivially reversible.