URL Encoder and Decoder
Percent-encode text so it is safe to use in a URL query string, or decode an encoded value back to readable text.
How to Use the URL Encoder and Decoder
- Choose Encode or Decode from the dropdown above the input.
- Paste the text or encoded value into the input box.
- Copy the converted value from the result panel.
Examples
Encode
- Input
- name=Jane Doe&city=New York
- Output
- name%3DJane%20Doe%26city%3DNew%20York
Decode
- Input
- caf%C3%A9%20menu
- Output
- café menu
About the URL Encoder and Decoder
URLs can only contain a limited set of characters. Spaces, ampersands, equals signs and non-English characters need percent-encoding when they appear inside a query parameter value. Developers and marketers use this when building links, UTM parameters and API requests.
Encoding uses encodeURIComponent, which also encodes characters such as /, ?, & and =. That makes it right for a single parameter value, but not for a whole URL, because the URL’s own separators would be encoded too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I encode a full URL or just a parameter?
Encode individual parameter values. This tool encodes /, ?, & and =, so encoding a full URL will also encode its separators.
Why is a space encoded as %20 and not +?
Percent-encoding represents a space as %20. The + form is specific to HTML form submissions. Note that the decoder does not turn + back into a space.
Why does decoding show an error?
A % sign must be followed by two hexadecimal digits that form valid UTF-8. A stray % or a truncated sequence like %E2%82 cannot be decoded.
Is my input sent anywhere?
The calculation runs in your browser with JavaScript, and this tool does not send what you enter to a Usevanta server.
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