URL Encode / Decode
Encode and decode URLs and query strings online. Convert special characters to percent-encoded format.
What is URL Encoding?
URL encoding (percent encoding) converts characters that are not allowed in URLs into a format that can be transmitted over the internet. Special characters like spaces, &, =, and # are replaced with a % followed by their hexadecimal ASCII code.
For example, a space becomes %20, and & becomes %26. This is essential for passing data in query strings and form submissions.
How to Use
- Choose Encode or Decode mode
- Paste your text or URL
- Select encoding type in Settings if needed
- Copy the result
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?
encodeURI encodes a full URL, preserving characters like /, ?, #, &. encodeURIComponent encodes everything including those characters — use it for individual query parameter values.
What does %20 mean?
%20 is the URL-encoded form of a space character. Some systems use + instead of %20 for spaces in query strings (form encoding).
When should I use + vs %20 for spaces?
Use %20 in URL paths and %20 or + in query strings. Both are valid in query strings but + is only valid there, not in the path portion of a URL.
Why do some URLs have %3D in them?
%3D is the URL-encoded form of = (equals sign). When = is part of a value (not a key-value separator), it must be encoded.
Is URL decoding safe for untrusted input?
Be careful. URL-decoded data can contain dangerous characters like <, >, " which could enable XSS if rendered as HTML. Always sanitize decoded values before display.