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Base64 Encoder/Decoder

Easily encode or decode text and files to and from Base64 format.

About the Base64 Encoder / Decoder

The Base64 Encoder and Decoder is a versatile tool for converting data between plain text/files and Base64 format. Whether you need to encode an SVG for inline CSS, decode a hidden token, or process file streams, this tool handles it securely and instantly.

Features

  • Bidirectional Conversion: Seamlessly encode plain text to Base64, or decode Base64 back to plain text with a single click.
  • File Support: Select local files to generate data URIs (perfect for `src` attributes), or decode Base64 data URIs back into their original file formats (PNG, JPG, PDF, etc.).
  • Live Processing: Text conversion happens in real-time as you type, providing instant feedback without page reloads.
  • 100% Client-Side: Security is paramount. This tool leverages browser APIs to process all data locally, meaning your sensitive text and private files are never exposed to external servers.

Use the toggle switches to select your input type (Text or File) and your desired action (Encode or Decode) to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Base64 encoding used for?

Base64 encoding translates binary data into a plain text string made of 64 ASCII characters. It is commonly used to safely transmit data like images, files, or complex payloads over protocols that only support text, such as email (SMTP) or JSON APIs.

Is Base64 encryption or just encoding?

Base64 is strictly an encoding scheme, not encryption. It does not use a secret key and provides zero security or confidentiality. Anyone with access to a Base64 string can instantly decode it back to its original format.

Can I decode Base64 back to the original file?

Yes. Since Base64 is a reversible encoding method, you can decode the string perfectly back into its original binary format. Our tool allows you to paste a Base64 string and download the resulting file.

Why does Base64 make text longer?

Base64 encoding takes every 3 bytes of binary data and represents them as 4 printable characters. Because of this conversion ratio, the resulting Base64 string will always be approximately 33% larger than the original data.

Is Base64 safe for passwords?

No, you should never use Base64 to store or protect passwords. Because it is easily decodable by anyone, it offers no cryptographic protection. Passwords should always be securely hashed using algorithms like bcrypt or Argon2.

What is URL-safe Base64?

Standard Base64 uses the '+' and '/' characters, which have special meanings in URLs and can cause routing errors. URL-safe Base64 replaces the '+' with '-' and the '/' with '_', allowing the string to be passed safely in web addresses.