URL Encoder & Decoder – Encode and Decode URLs Instantly

Convert special characters to URL-safe encoding and back. Essential for building links, handling query params, and fixing broken URLs.

Encodes all special characters (use for query parameters)

Common Examples

Encode query parameter:
hello world → hello%20world
Encode special characters:
a&b=c → a%26b%3Dc
Full URL encode:
https://example.com/path?q=hello world → https://example.com/path?q=hello%20world

About URL Encoder/Decoder

The URL Encoder/Decoder is an essential tool for web developers working with URLs. It provides instant encoding and decoding of URL components and full URLs, handling special characters, spaces, and international characters. Perfect for API development, form submissions, and URL manipulation.

Use Cases:

  • Encoding query parameters and form data for URLs
  • Decoding encoded URLs to readable format
  • Handling special characters in API requests
  • Processing international characters in URLs
  • Debugging URL encoding issues
  • Preparing data for safe URL transmission

Key Features:

  • Component encoding (encodeURIComponent) for query values
  • Full URL encoding (encodeURI) preserving URL structure
  • URL decoding with error handling
  • URL parsing and component extraction
  • Real-time encoding/decoding
  • 100% browser-based - no server processing

Related Tools

Explore these related free tools to enhance your productivity and workflow.

URL Parser

Parse URLs and extract all components including query parameters

Query String Parser

Parse query strings and convert URL parameters to JSON

Base64 Encoder/Decoder

Encode and decode text to/from Base64 format

HTML Entity Encoder/Decoder

Encode and decode HTML entities for safe HTML content

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between encode and full encode?

Encode (encodeURIComponent) encodes all special characters including :, /, ?, #, etc. This is used for URL components like query parameters. Full encode (encodeURI) preserves characters like :, /, ?, # that are part of URL structure, only encoding spaces and other special characters. Use encode for query values, use full encode for entire URLs.

When should I use URL encoding?

Use URL encoding when you need to include special characters, spaces, or non-ASCII characters in URLs. Common use cases include: query parameters with spaces or special characters, form data submission, API requests with special characters, and internationalized URLs.

How do I encode a URL component?

Select 'Encode' mode and paste your text. The tool will convert spaces to %20, special characters to their encoded equivalents. This is perfect for encoding query parameter values, form data, or any URL component that needs to be safely transmitted.

Is the URL encoder/decoder free to use?

Yes! Our URL encoder/decoder is 100% free with no registration required, no usage limits, and no hidden fees. You can encode and decode as many URLs as you need for your development work.

Are my URLs stored or tracked?

No, all URL encoding/decoding happens locally in your browser. We don't store, save, or have access to any URLs you encode or decode. Your privacy is completely protected.

Can I decode malformed URLs?

The tool will attempt to decode URLs, but malformed or invalid encodings may result in errors. The tool shows error messages when decoding fails, helping you identify issues with the encoded URL.

What characters need to be URL encoded?

Special characters like spaces, &, =, ?, #, %, +, and non-ASCII characters need to be encoded. Spaces become %20, & becomes %26, etc. The tool automatically handles all these conversions.

How do I encode query parameters?

Use the 'Encode' mode (not full encode) for query parameter values. This encodes all special characters including = and &, which is necessary for safe transmission in URLs.

What's the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?

encodeURIComponent encodes all special characters (used for query values), while encodeURI preserves characters like :, /, ?, # that are part of URL structure (used for entire URLs).

Can I encode multiple URLs at once?

The tool processes one URL at a time. For multiple URLs, encode them separately. Each URL is processed instantly, making it quick to encode multiple URLs in sequence.

How do I handle international characters in URLs?

The tool automatically encodes international (non-ASCII) characters using UTF-8 encoding. Characters like é, ñ, 中文 are properly encoded to their percent-encoded equivalents.