URL Encode/Decode Guide
Convert text and query parameters to and from RFC 3986 percent-encoding with component and full URL modes.
Overview
Encode special characters into RFC 3986 percent-encoded strings or decode encoded URLs back to human-readable text with dedicated component and full-URI modes.
When to Use URL Encode/Decode
Use URL Encode/Decode when query strings, redirects, or webhook callbacks break because reserved characters like spaces, ampersands, or question marks are not encoded properly.
Inputs, Formats & Specifications
- Accepted Inputs
- Raw text, query parameters, or percent-encoded URL strings
- Output Formats
- Percent-encoded string or decoded readable text
- Supported Standards
- RFC 3986 percent-encoding (e.g. `%20` for space, `%2F` for `/`, `%3F` for `?`)
- Browser Limits & Scope
- Malformed percent-sequences (such as a trailing `%` without two hex digits) trigger clear syntax warnings rather than silent failure.
How to use URL Encode/Decode
- Choose your mode: 'Encode' (Text to URL-safe percent-encoding) or 'Decode' (Percent-encoded to plain text).
- Select encoding scope: 'Component' (encodes slashes and query delimiters) or 'Full URL' (preserves URL structure).
- Paste your text or query string into the input area.
- View the converted result and copy it with one click.
Real-World Examples
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?
`encodeURI` is intended for complete URLs and does not encode characters with special meaning in a URL (`:`, `/`, `?`, `#`). `encodeURIComponent` encodes all reserved characters and is intended for individual query parameter values.
How are spaces represented in URL encoding?
In standard RFC 3986 URI encoding, spaces are represented as `%20`. In legacy form query parameters (`application/x-www-form-urlencoded`), spaces are sometimes shown as `+`.
Can I decode a URL that was double-encoded?
Yes. Simply run the decode operation a second time if the first pass reveals another layer of percent-encoded characters.
Privacy & Data Security
URL Encode/Decode is designed to run in the browser. Review outputs before sharing them with any external service or workflow.