What Is URL Encoding and Decoding? – Simple Guide for Beginners
When you copy and paste a link and see strange symbols like %20 or %2F, that’s called URL encoding. In this blog, we’ll explain what it is, why it’s needed, and how to use it properly.
What Is URL Encoding?
URL encoding is the process of converting special characters into a format that can be safely used in a URL. For example, a space becomes %20, and a slash becomes %2F.
This is needed because URLs can only contain certain characters like letters, numbers, and a few symbols. Characters like spaces, commas, or emojis can break a link if not encoded.
What Is URL Decoding?
URL decoding is the opposite. It converts encoded characters like %20 back into their original form, such as a space. This is helpful when reading or analyzing encoded links.
Where URL Encoding Is Used
- 🌐 In web addresses (URLs) to handle spaces, symbols, or non-English characters
- 📝 When sending data through forms or APIs
- 🔐 In email and chat apps to avoid breaking links
Try Our Free URL Encoder & Decoder
Use our simple online tool to encode or decode your links in seconds. No login required and works right in your browser.
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FAQs About URL Encoding
They are part of URL encoding. Each % code represents a special character that cannot be written directly in a link.
Yes, our tool can handle any length of URL and show you the decoded result instantly.
No, they are different. URL encoding is for web addresses; Base64 is used for encoding files or binary content.