What is Base64 encoding used for?

Base64 lets binary data pass through systems that only handle text — embedding images as data URIs, attaching files inside JSON, or storing small assets directly in HTML or CSS. It is an encoding, not encryption, so it provides no security.

Why is my Base64 string longer than the original text?

Base64 represents every 3 bytes of input as 4 ASCII characters, so the encoded output is about 33 percent larger than the source data. Padding with = characters at the end accounts for input lengths that aren't a multiple of three.

How do I decode a Base64 string back to text?

Switch to decode mode and paste the Base64 string. The tool converts it back to its original text. If decoding fails, the input may be truncated, URL-safe encoded, or not valid Base64.

Can I encode a file to Base64?

Yes. Drag and drop a file onto the input and the tool encodes its raw bytes. This is the format you need for data URIs like data:image/png;base64,... when inlining small assets.

Is Base64 secure for storing passwords?

No. Base64 is reversible by anyone — it only changes the representation, not the contents. Never use it to protect secrets. For storing passwords use a one-way hash; this site's hash generator tool can help.

Base64 Encoder / Decoder

Encode text to Base64 or decode Base64 strings back to text.

Tool

Enter text or a Base64 string below.

Text Input

Base64 Output

About Base64 Encoder / Decoder

Base64 is the encoding that lets binary data travel through text-only channels. When you embed an image in a CSS file as a data URI, attach a file to a JSON payload, or stuff a small asset into an HTML page, it's almost certainly Base64 underneath. It maps every three bytes onto four printable ASCII characters, which is why encoded output is roughly a third larger than the original.

This tool encodes in both directions. Type or paste text to get its Base64 form, or paste a Base64 string to recover the original — useful when you're staring at an encoded value in a config file, a JWT segment, or a log line and need to know what it actually says. You can also drag a file in to encode its raw bytes, handy for building data URIs or inlining small assets.

It all happens in the browser, so files never upload and pasted strings never reach a server. That makes it safe for encoding credentials, certificates, or any payload you wouldn't want passing through someone else's backend.

How to use Base64 Encoder / Decoder

Choose encode or decode
Encoding turns readable text or file bytes into Base64. Decoding turns a Base64 string back into its original text or bytes.
Enter text or drop a file
Type or paste into the input, or drag a file onto the drop zone to encode its raw contents — useful for data URIs and inline assets.
Read the result
The converted output appears instantly as you type. Copy it into your config, CSS data URI, or API request.
Decode unknown values
If you've found a Base64 string in a token or log and want to know what it contains, paste it into decode to reveal the underlying text.

Frequently asked questions

JWT Debugger / Decoder

Decode and inspect JSON Web Tokens (JWTs). Instantly view header, payload, signature, and expiration status.

Hash Generator & Verifier

Generate MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512, and bcrypt hashes. Verify strings against known hashes.

UUID Generator & Validator

Generate v1 or v4 UUIDs, validate existing ones, detect versions, and inspect v1 timestamps.