Base32 Encoder/Decoder
Free online tool to encode and decode Base32 data instantly. Perfect for working with TOTP secrets, encoding binary data, and data transmission in constrained environments.
How to Use This Tool
Using our Base32 encoder/decoder is simple and straightforward. Start by selecting your conversion direction using the toggle buttons above – choose "Encode" to convert text to Base32 format, or "Decode" to convert Base32 back to readable text. Type or paste your data into the left input box, and the conversion happens instantly as you type. The converted output appears in the right box in real-time.
Once your data is converted, you can copy the result to your clipboard with one click using the "Copy to Clipboard" button, or download it as a file using the "Download" button. If you need to start over, the "Clear" button will reset both input and output areas. New to Base32 encoding? Click "Load Example" to see sample data and understand how the conversion works.
All processing happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your data never leaves your device, ensuring complete privacy and security. No account registration, no data storage, no tracking – just fast, reliable conversion whenever you need it.
Common Use Cases
Base32 encoding is commonly used in applications where case-insensitive encoding is required. It's the standard encoding for TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) secrets used in two-factor authentication, making it essential for working with authenticator apps and security tokens. Base32 is also used in various protocols and systems where data needs to be transmitted safely using only alphanumeric characters.
Common scenarios include encoding TOTP secrets for QR codes, working with Geohash location encoding, encoding data for URLs and filenames, and preparing binary data for text-based transmission. For example, you might need to encode a secret key in Base32 format when setting up two-factor authentication, or decode a Base32 string to view the underlying data.
This converter is invaluable for security engineers, developers working with authentication systems, and anyone dealing with data encoding in constrained environments. It supports standard Base32 encoding (RFC 4648) and provides bidirectional conversion for maximum flexibility in your workflow.
Why Use Our Base32 Converter?
Lightning Fast
Instant conversion as you type with no delays or waiting. Process data instantly in your browser.
100% Private
All processing happens in your browser. Your data never leaves your device – complete privacy guaranteed.
RFC 4648 Standard
Follows RFC 4648 Base32 standard, ensuring compatibility with TOTP and other standard implementations.
Need more encoding tools? Check out for additional data encoding and conversion utilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Base32 encoding?
Base32 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data using 32 ASCII characters (A-Z and 2-7). It's similar to Base64 but uses a smaller, case-insensitive alphabet, making it more suitable for environments where case sensitivity is an issue. Base32 is commonly used for TOTP secrets, Geohash encoding, and data that needs to be both human-readable and machine-processable.
When should I use Base32 instead of Base64?
Use Base32 when you need case-insensitive encoding, when data might be entered manually by humans (like TOTP secrets), or when you need to avoid characters that could be confused (like 0/O or 1/l). Base32 is also preferred for URL-safe encoding in some contexts. Use Base64 when efficiency is more important, as it produces shorter strings for the same data.
Is this tool safe for TOTP secrets?
Yes! All conversions happen entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your secrets never leave your device and are never sent to any server. This makes it safe for encoding and decoding TOTP secrets, API keys, or any other sensitive information. For extra security, you can even use this tool offline.
What characters are used in Base32?
Base32 uses 32 characters: A-Z (uppercase letters) and 2-7 (numbers). It specifically avoids 0, 1, 8, and 9 to reduce confusion with similar-looking letters. The padding character = may also appear at the end of encoded strings. This alphabet makes Base32 both case-insensitive and easy to read.
Can I decode Base32 with padding?
Absolutely! Our decoder handles both padded and unpadded Base32 strings automatically. Padding (= characters at the end) is used to make the encoded string length a multiple of 8, but many implementations work fine without it. If your Base32 string contains invalid characters, you'll see a clear error message.