URL Encode / Decode
Convert strings between readable text and URL-safe encoded values with instant feedback.
What is URL Encode / Decode?
Encode one query parameter value or decode percent escapes copied from an HTTP request. Encoding a whole URL as a component also encodes its separators, so decide which part you are editing first.
How to use URL Encode / Decode?
Step 1
Paste a raw or encoded value into the input panel.
Step 2
Choose encode or decode depending on the input.
Step 3
Copy the transformed output and continue with related parser tools if needed.
Example input / output
A search value of C++ & Java becomes C%2B%2B%20%26%20Java. Decode once at the matching protocol boundary; %252F becomes %2F, not a slash, after one pass.
Example input
email=team@example.com&redirect=/tools/json-formatterCheck the result
- Malformed percent-encoded sequences can fail decoding.
- Full URLs often work best in the dedicated query parameter parser.
Practical developer examples
Preserve query structure
Encode the value before joining it to its key. A literal & inside the value must not create another parameter.
Identify form encoding
A plus represents a space in application/x-www-form-urlencoded data. decodeURIComponent treats a plus literally; use the query parser for a complete query string.
Common developer use cases
Malformed percent escapes cause an error. Percent encoding is not encryption and does not make a URL safe to execute.
Common issues
FAQ
Why does + remain + after decoding?
This tool uses JavaScript percent decoding. Plus-to-space conversion belongs to form/query parsing, not generic percent decoding.
Should I repeatedly decode until the text looks right?
No. Decode the number of layers specified by the producer. Repeated decoding can change intentional escaped values.