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Guide

How to Encode and Decode Base64

To encode Base64, paste your text into the Base64 tool and choose Encode; to decode, paste a Base64 string and choose Decode. The tool handles accents, emoji and other multi-byte UTF-8 text correctly. Base64 is an encoding, not encryption.

How to use the Base64 Encode/Decode

  1. Paste plain text to encode, or a Base64 string to decode.
  2. Choose Encode or Decode.
  3. Read the result in the output box.
  4. Copy it for use in your code, email or configuration.

Worked example

The text “Hello” encodes to “SGVsbG8=”, and decoding “SGVsbG8=” returns “Hello”.

Tips and common mistakes

  • Base64 is not secure. Anyone can decode it, so never use it to hide passwords.
  • Base64 output is about a third larger than the input.
  • Decoding fails if the string has invalid characters or broken padding.

Frequently asked questions

Is Base64 encryption?

No. It is a reversible encoding that anyone can decode without a key.

Why does the output end with equals signs?

The equals signs are padding that makes the length a multiple of four.

Does it work with emoji and accents?

Yes. Text is treated as UTF-8 so multi-byte characters survive the round trip.

Try the Base64 Encode/Decode Free, instant, and runs in your browser.