URL Encoder: Encode and Decode URLs Safely

URL encoding (percent encoding) is essential for safely including special characters, spaces, and non-ASCII characters in URLs. Our URL Encoder converts text into URL-encoded format, ensuring special characters are properly encoded for use in web addresses, query parameters, and API endpoints. This tool also decodes URL-encoded strings back to their original form. Essential for web developers, API integrators, and anyone working with URLs that contain special characters.

How it works

1. Enter the text or URL you want to encode (or paste an encoded URL to decode).
2. For encoding: special characters, spaces, and non-ASCII characters are converted to percent-encoded format (e.g., space becomes %20).
3. For decoding: percent-encoded sequences are converted back to their original characters.
4. The encoded or decoded result is displayed, which you can copy for use in your applications.
5. You can encode/decode entire URLs or just specific parts like query parameters.

Why it matters

• Safely include special characters in URLs without breaking the URL structure.
• Encode query parameters and form data for proper transmission in HTTP requests.
• Handle international characters and Unicode in URLs correctly.
• Debug URL issues by encoding or decoding URLs to see their actual structure.
• Ensure API compatibility by properly encoding data in API endpoints and parameters.

FAQ

When do I need to URL encode?

You need to URL encode when URLs contain spaces, special characters (!, @, #, etc.), non-ASCII characters, or reserved characters that have special meaning in URLs.

What's the difference between encoding and escaping?

URL encoding (percent encoding) is a specific form of encoding for URLs. "Escaping" is a more general term. In URL context, they often mean the same thing - converting special characters to safe representations.

Can I encode entire URLs?

Yes, but typically you only encode specific parts (like query parameter values), not the entire URL structure. Encoding the entire URL (including http://, domain, etc.) would break it.

Open the interactive tool on this page after JavaScript loads, or contact us if something is broken.