What is URL encoding?

URL encoding (percent-encoding) converts special characters in URLs to a format that can be transmitted over the internet. Characters like spaces, &, ?, and non-ASCII characters are converted to %XX format where XX is the hexadecimal representation.

When should I encode URLs?

Encode URLs when passing data in query parameters, working with APIs that require encoded input, handling user-generated content in URLs, or dealing with international characters. Modern browsers handle encoding automatically, but APIs often require manual encoding.

What's the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?

This tool uses encodeURIComponent which encodes all special characters except letters, digits, and -_.~!*'(). It's safer for encoding individual parameter values. encodeURI preserves URL structure but encodes less, suitable for full URLs.

Can this handle international characters?

Yes! The tool properly encodes Unicode characters including emoji, Chinese, Arabic, and other international text. These are converted to UTF-8 byte sequences then percent-encoded for safe URL transmission.

Is URL encoding reversible?

Yes, URL encoding is completely reversible. Any percent-encoded URL can be decoded back to its original form. The tool automatically detects encoded URLs and decodes them.

URL Encoder/Decoder

Encode special characters in URLs or decode percent-encoded URLs instantly

Auto-detects format • Handles query parameters • 100% browser-based

Input URL or Text

0 characters

Output

Smart Detection

Automatically detects if your input needs encoding or decoding

Full Unicode Support

Handles international characters, emoji, and all special characters

Privacy Focused

All processing in your browser. No data sent to servers.

Common URL Encodings

Space→ %20

!→ %21

#→ %23

$→ %24

&→ %26

+→ %2B

=→ %3D

?→ %3F

Common Use Cases

✓Encode query parameters for API calls

✓Decode URLs from server logs or analytics

✓Handle special characters in form submissions

✓Prepare URLs for sharing on social media

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I need to encode URLs?

URL encoding is needed when passing data in query parameters, especially with special characters like spaces, &, =, or non-ASCII characters. Modern browsers handle this automatically, but APIs and server-side code often require manual encoding.

What characters need encoding?

Special characters like spaces, !, #, $, &, ', (, ), *, +, ,, /, :, ;, =, ?, @, [, ] need encoding. Also, any non-ASCII characters (accented letters, emoji, etc.) must be encoded for safe URL transmission.

Is this the same as HTML encoding?

No, URL encoding (percent-encoding) is different from HTML encoding. URL encoding uses %XX format for special characters, while HTML encoding uses &name; or &#number; format. They serve different purposes.

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