URL Encoder/Decoder
Free online tool to encode and decode URLs instantly. Perfect for encoding query parameters, handling special characters in URLs, and working with web APIs. Supports component-specific encoding for paths, query strings, and full URLs.
Full URL: Encodes the entire URL including protocol, domain, and special characters. Component: Encodes only specific parts (query parameters, path segments) while preserving URL structure.
How to Use the URL Encoder/Decoder
- 1.Choose your conversion direction (Encode or Decode)
- 2.Select encoding type: "Full URL" for complete URLs or "Component" for query parameters and path segments
- 3.Enter your URL or text to encode/decode
- 4.The conversion happens instantly - no need to click a button
- 5.Copy or share your results
What is URL Encoding?
URL encoding (also known as percent-encoding) converts special characters in URLs into a format that can be transmitted over the internet. Special characters are replaced with a "%" followed by two hexadecimal digits.
For example, a space is encoded as %20, and an ampersand (&) is encoded as %26.
Common Use Cases:
- Encoding query parameters in URLs
- Handling special characters in API requests
- Creating shareable URLs with complex data
- Form submissions with special characters
- Passing data in URL paths
- Encoding search queries
Commonly Encoded Characters
| Character | Encoded | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Space | %20 or + | Space character |
| ! | %21 | Exclamation mark |
| # | %23 | Hash/pound sign |
| $ | %24 | Dollar sign |
| % | %25 | Percent sign |
| & | %26 | Ampersand |
| = | %3D | Equals sign |
| ? | %3F | Question mark |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Full URL and Component encoding?
Full URL encoding (encodeURI) encodes the entire URL while preserving URL structure characters like :, /, ?, and #. Component encoding (encodeURIComponent) encodes all special characters including those used in URL structure, making it ideal for encoding query parameters and path segments.
Why do I see %20 instead of + for spaces?
Both %20 and + are valid encodings for spaces. %20 is the standard percent-encoding, while + is a shorthand often used in query strings. This tool uses %20 (standard encoding) by default.
Is my data safe?
Yes! All conversions happen locally in your browser using JavaScript. Your data never leaves your device and is never sent to any server.