Base64 Encoder / Decoder
Encode and decode Base64 strings instantly.
What is Base64?
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data using 64 ASCII characters. It's commonly used for embedding images in HTML/CSS, sending attachments in emails, and storing complex data in JSON.
📘 How It Works
Binary to Text Conversion
Base64 represents 6 bits with 1 character. 3 bytes (24 bits) become 4 Base64 characters. Padding (=) fills incomplete groups.
Encoding Process
Text → UTF-8 bytes → 6-bit groups → Base64 character lookup. Uses A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, / (64 characters).
Decoding Process
Reverse the encoding: Base64 characters → 6-bit values → bytes → original data.
Unicode Handling
UTF-8 encoding preserves non-ASCII characters. International text encodes/decodes correctly.
Browser Implementation
Uses JavaScript's btoa()/atob() with UTF-8 wrapper for full Unicode support.
💡 Common Use Cases
Data URIs
Embed images directly in HTML/CSS: data:image/png;base64,... Reduces HTTP requests.
API Authentication
HTTP Basic Auth uses Base64 for credentials. Format: Authorization: Basic <base64>.
Email Attachments
MIME encoding uses Base64 for binary attachments. Ensures safe transmission through text-based email systems.
JSON Storage
Store binary data in JSON by Base64 encoding. Common for images, files, or encrypted data.
URL-Safe Data
Encode complex data for URL parameters. Use URL-safe Base64 variant if needed.
Configuration Files
Encode secrets or binary configuration in text-based config files. Often combined with encryption.