URL Encoder / Decoder

Encode, decode, parse, and build URLs and query strings instantly.

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What is URL Encoding?

URL encoding (percent-encoding) replaces unsafe ASCII characters with a % followed by two hexadecimal digits. For example, a space becomes %20 and an ampersand becomes %26. This ensures special characters in URLs, query parameters, and form data are transmitted correctly without being misinterpreted as URL delimiters.

Common Use Cases

  • Encoding special characters in URL query parameters
  • Decoding percent-encoded strings from web server logs
  • Building API request URLs with dynamic parameters
  • Encoding form data for HTTP POST requests
  • Fixing broken links with special characters

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?

encodeURI encodes a full URL, preserving characters like :, /, ?, and # that have meaning in URLs. encodeURIComponent encodes everything except letters, digits, and - _ . ~ making it suitable for individual parameter values.

Why is a space encoded as %20 or +?

In URLs, spaces are encoded as %20 (percent-encoding). In form data (application/x-www-form-urlencoded), spaces are encoded as +. Both represent a space but in different contexts.