URL Encoder/Decoder — Free Online Tool

Encode & decode URLs and query strings — percent encoding. · No signup · Works on mobile

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100% private: your data is processed in your browser. Nothing is uploaded to our servers.

How to use the url encoder/decoder

  1. 1

    Paste your text or URL and pick Encode or Decode.

  2. 2

    Choose component mode (for query parameter values) or full-URL mode.

  3. 3

    Copy the converted result instantly.

What does this tool do?

This free URL encoder and decoder converts text to percent-encoded form for safe use in URLs — and decodes %20-style strings back to readable text. It offers both component mode (encodes &, =, ? for query parameter values) and full-URL mode (preserves URL structure), with instant results.

How does the url encoder/decoder work?

Component mode uses encodeURIComponent, converting every reserved character to %XX UTF-8 byte sequences — right for query values. Full-URL mode uses encodeURI, preserving structural characters (:/?#&=) — right for encoding a complete URL. Decoding reverses either, with clear errors for malformed sequences.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I use encodeURIComponent vs encodeURI?

encodeURIComponent for pieces of a URL — like a search query going into ?q=... — because it encodes &, =, ?, / which would otherwise break parsing. encodeURI for a whole URL where those characters are structure. Encoding "a&b=c" as a query value must give a%26b%3Dc.

Why do spaces become %20 in some places and + in others?

Two standards: percent-encoding proper (RFC 3986) uses %20, while the older application/x-www-form-urlencoded format (HTML form submissions) uses +. Both are widely understood in query strings, but in URL paths only %20 is valid — a + in a path is a literal plus sign.

Is the URL encoder really free?

Yes — 100% free with no hidden charges, trial limits, or premium tiers for core features. No account or email needed. The site is supported by non-intrusive display ads, which keeps every tool free for everyone.

Are my files private when using the URL encoder?

Completely. The URL encoder processes everything locally in your browser — your files are never uploaded to any server. When you close the tab, everything is gone. This makes it safe for confidential documents, client work, and personal photos.

Does the URL encoder work on mobile phones?

Yes. It's built mobile-first and works on any modern phone browser — iPhone (Safari) and Android (Chrome) included. You can pick files straight from your camera roll and download results directly to your device.

Do I need to install any software to use the URL encoder?

No. The URL encoder runs entirely in your web browser — no downloads, extensions, or signup. Open the page, use the tool, download your result. It works on Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iOS, and Android.