URL Encoder / Decoder
Percent-encode text so it is safe to use in URLs and query strings, or decode an encoded URL back into readable text.
Frequently asked questions
When do I need URL encoding?
Any time a value placed in a URL contains characters with special meaning — spaces, &, ?, =, #, slashes, or non-ASCII characters. Encoding them prevents the URL from being misinterpreted.
What is the difference between %20 and + for spaces?
%20 is the standard percent-encoding for a space and works everywhere in a URL. The + form is only valid in the query string and comes from the older form-encoding convention. This tool uses %20.
Why does decoding fail sometimes?
A lone % that is not followed by two hex digits makes the string malformed. Check for truncated input or text that was already decoded once.