Question 1

How do I decode a Base64 string?

Accepted Answer

To decode Base64, paste your Base64 string into the input field above, select "Decode" mode, and the decoded plain text appears instantly. Base64 strings typically end with one or two "=" padding characters. This free online Base64 decoder works entirely in your browser — no data is sent to any server.

Question 2

How do I encode text to Base64?

Accepted Answer

To encode text to Base64, paste your plain text into the input above, select "Encode" mode, and the Base64 output is generated instantly. You can then copy the encoded string and use it in API headers, HTML data URIs, JWT tokens, or any system requiring Base64-encoded data.

Question 3

What is the difference between Base64 encode and decode?

Accepted Answer

Base64 encoding converts plain text or binary data into a Base64 string (a longer string of letters, numbers, +, and /). Base64 decoding reverses this — it converts a Base64 string back into the original plain text or data. Encoding is used to safely package data; decoding is used to read it.

Question 4

Is Base64 the same as encryption?

Accepted Answer

No. Base64 is an encoding scheme, not encryption. It is easily and instantly reversible without any key or password. Anyone with a Base64 decoder can read Base64-encoded data. Do not use Base64 to secure sensitive information — use proper encryption like AES for that.

Question 5

What does a Base64 string look like?

Accepted Answer

A Base64 string uses only the characters A–Z, a–z, 0–9, +, and /, often ending with one or two = padding characters. For example, the word "Hello" in Base64 is "SGVsbG8=". Base64 strings are always longer than the original text — about 33% larger.

Question 6

Can I decode Base64 images or files?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have a Base64-encoded image (like a data URI starting with "data:image/png;base64,..."), you can paste the Base64 portion into the decoder to inspect the raw binary representation. This tool supports UTF-8 text and standard Base64 strings.

Question 7

Is this Base64 tool free and private?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this Base64 encoder and decoder is completely free with no signup required. All encoding and decoding happens locally in your browser — your data is never sent to or stored on any server.

Base64 Encoder/Decoder

How to Encode and Decode Base64 Online

Encoding (Text → Base64)

Decoding (Base64 → Text)

What is Base64?

Common Use Cases

Frequently Asked Questions

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