URL Encode/Decode
Free online URL encoder and decoder. Encode or decode URLs and query parameters instantly with proper percent-encoding.
About the URL Encode/Decode
Our free URL encoder and decoder converts text to and from percent-encoded format, the form web addresses use to safely carry spaces and special characters. Encoding turns characters like spaces, ampersands, and question marks into percent codes such as %20, so they can travel in a URL without breaking it, while decoding turns those codes back into readable text. Paste your text, choose encode or decode, and the result appears instantly. Developers use it constantly when building query strings, debugging links, working with APIs, and inspecting tracking parameters. Handling percent codes by hand is slow and error-prone, so an instant converter saves time and avoids mistakes. Everything runs locally in your browser, so it is immediate, free, requires no signup, and your data stays private.
Features
- Encode mode — converts special characters to percent-encoded format
- Decode mode — converts percent-encoded URLs back to readable text
- Handles all Unicode characters and special symbols
- Real-time conversion as you type
- Copy result to clipboard with one click
- 100% free and private — no server processing
How to use this tool
The URL Encode/Decode works right in your browser — no signup, no installation. Follow these steps:
- Type or paste the text or URL you want to encode or decode.
- Click Encode to convert to percent-encoded format.
- Click Decode to convert an encoded URL back to plain text.
- Use the Copy button to copy the result to your clipboard.
Frequently asked questions
What does this encode?
It uses encodeURIComponent to encode a URL component, such as a query-parameter value. Reserved characters are escaped; encoding a whole URL will also encode its separators.
Which characters stay unchanged?
ASCII letters, digits and - _ . ! ~ * ' ( ) remain unchanged. Other supported characters are encoded as UTF-8 percent escapes.
How does decoding work?
decodeURIComponent reverses valid percent-encoded UTF-8. Malformed escapes produce an error. A plus sign stays a plus sign; form-style plus-to-space decoding is not applied.
Using the results
Use the URL Encode/Decode to transform supported text or data formats in your browser. Review the output before replacing your original, since some conversions change formatting or discard information.