URL encoder / decoder
Percent-encode text for safe use in URLs, or decode it back. Switch between encoding a whole URL and encoding a single component (a query value or path segment). Live as you type, fully offline.
Open URL encoder / decoder →What is the URL encoder / decoder?
A free, private tool that percent-encodes text so it's safe to use in a URL, or decodes percent-encoded text back to plain readable form. Switch between encoding a whole URL and encoding a single component such as a query value or path segment. It updates live as you type, runs entirely in your browser and works offline.
How to use URL encoder / decoder
- Choose encode or decode — Pick Encode to make text URL-safe, or Decode to turn percent-encoded text back into plain characters.
- Set the scope — Leave Component ticked to encode a single value (escaping & / ? = and similar), or untick it to encode a whole URL and keep those structural characters intact.
- Type or paste your text — Enter your text in the input box. The result appears below and refreshes live as you type.
- Copy the result — Use the copy button in the header to copy the encoded or decoded output to your clipboard.
Frequently asked questions
What does Component mode change?
Component mode escapes the structural characters & / ? = # too, so the text is safe to drop into a single query value or path segment. With it off, a whole URL is encoded but those characters are left intact.
Why am I seeing a decode error?
Decoding fails when the text contains an invalid percent-escape, such as a lone % that isn't followed by two valid hex digits. Fix the stray % and the result reappears.
Is my text sent anywhere?
No. Encoding and decoding happen entirely in your browser, so your text never leaves your device and the tool works offline.
Does it remember what I typed?
Yes. Your text and your mode choices are saved on this device, so the tool reopens with your last work in place.
Why do spaces become %20?
Spaces aren't allowed in URLs, so encoding replaces each with %20 (or, in component mode, characters like & become %26) to keep the link valid.
Tips
- Use Component mode for a single query value or path segment; turn it off when encoding an already-built full URL.
- Paste a messy %20-filled link and switch to Decode to read it back in plain text.
- If decoding errors, look for a lone % or a broken %XX sequence in your input.
- Copy the output straight from the header button rather than selecting it by hand.