Base64 Encoder / Decoder
Convert text to Base64 encoding and decode Base64 back to text instantly
Input
Output
What is Base64?
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data in an ASCII string format. It’s commonly used to encode data that needs to be stored and transferred over media designed to deal with text.
When to Use Encoding
Use Base64 encoding when you need to represent binary data in a text format. Common use cases include data URIs, email attachments, and storing complex data in XML or JSON.
Encoding Tips
Base64 encoded data is about 33% larger than the original binary data. Always validate Base64 strings before decoding to avoid errors. Use this tool for text and small files only.
In today’s digital age, not all data is plain text—sometimes it’s images, PDFs, or binary files. So how do you transmit non-text data over channels designed for text? The answer is Base64 encoding.
Our free Base64 Encoder and Decoder tool simplifies converting between text and binary formats, whether you’re a developer, system admin, or just need to handle image-to-Base64 conversions. In this complete guide, you’ll learn what Base64 is, why it matters, and how to use our powerful online Base64 tool with ease.
How to Use Our Online Base64 Encoder & Decoder
Whether you’re working with plain text or files like images, here’s how to use our tool:
For Text Encoding & Decoding:
- Enter Text: Paste or type your content into the Input box.
- Encode to Base64: Click “Encode to Base64” and see the result appear in the Output box instantly.
- Decode from Base64: Paste a Base64 string and click “Decode from Base64” to restore the original text.
For File Encoding (Image to Base64, etc.):
- Upload File: Click “Upload File to Encode” and select your image, PDF, or other file.
- View Base64 Output: The tool instantly converts the file into a Base64 Data URL.
- Copy or Download: Use the Copy or Download buttons to save your encoded data.
Manage Your Conversion:
- Copy Output: One click to copy the result.
- Download Result: Save the Base64 string as a
.txtfile. - Clear Fields: Reset the input and output areas instantly.
What Is Base64 Encoding?
Base64 encoding is a method of converting binary data into ASCII text using a 64-character set (A–Z, a–z, 0–9, +, and /). This makes it possible to transmit non-text files (like images or documents) through text-based systems like HTML, XML, JSON, or email.
The Base64 format also uses = as padding to ensure the output length is a multiple of 4 characters.
Why Use a Base64 Converter?
Here are the most common and important use cases:
1. Convert Images to Base64 for Web Use
Base64 lets you embed images directly in HTML or CSS using Data URLs, reducing HTTP requests and speeding up page load times for small assets.
<img src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAA..." />
2. Email Attachments via MIME
Email protocols like SMTP only support text. Base64 enables you to send binary files (e.g., PDFs, images) as attachments by converting them into a readable format that email servers can handle.
3. Basic Authentication in HTTP
In Basic HTTP Authentication, the username:password pair is Base64-encoded for use in headers. For example:
Authorization: Basic dXNlcm5hbWU6cGFzc3dvcmQ=
⚠️ Note: This is not secure unless used over HTTPS.
4. Storing Binary in JSON or XML
Base64 encoding is perfect for embedding small binary files (like icons or config files) in text-based formats like JSON, XML, or YAML.
Base64 Encoding vs. Encryption
Base64 is NOT encryption.
Let’s break it down:
| Encoding | Encryption |
|---|---|
| Public, reversible | Secured, requires key |
| Format conversion | Confidentiality |
| Anyone can decode | Only authorized users can decrypt |
Never use Base64 to store sensitive data like passwords—use encryption methods like AES or RSA instead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does Base64 output appear longer than the original?
Base64 uses 4 characters for every 3 bytes of data. This results in a size increase of about 33%.
Is this Base64 tool safe to use?
Yes! All encoding and decoding happens in your browser using JavaScript. Your data is never sent to any server—privacy and security are guaranteed.
What does the = symbol mean in Base64?
The = is used for padding when the data doesn’t evenly divide by 3. It ensures the output length is valid for decoding.
What happens if I input an invalid Base64 string?
Our tool automatically detects invalid inputs and shows an error message, so you know immediately if your Base64 data is malformed.
Key Benefits of Using Our Base64 Tool
- Beginner-friendly UI
- Instant text & file conversion
- Secure, offline processing
- Supports image, PDF, and other file types
- Outputs standard-compliant Base64 Data URIs
Conclusion
Base64 encoding and decoding is an essential part of modern web development and data handling. Whether you’re embedding images, handling email attachments, or storing binary data in JSON, Base64 provides a reliable, text-friendly solution.
With our free Base64 Encoder & Decoder, you get:
- Fast, accurate conversions
- Full support for both text and file data
- Complete browser-side privacy
📌 Bookmark this tool today and make Base64 conversion simple, secure, and efficient—every time.