What is URL encoding?

URL encoding (percent-encoding) replaces characters that aren't allowed in URLs with a % followed by two hex digits. For example, a space becomes %20 and & becomes %26.

When do I need to URL encode?

When building query strings, embedding URLs inside other URLs, or passing special characters in GET parameters. For example: /search?q=hello+world needs to be /search?q=hello%20world.

What's the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?

encodeURI encodes a full URL and leaves characters like / and ? intact. encodeURIComponent encodes a URL component (like a query value) and encodes those characters too. This tool uses encodeURIComponent for encoding.

Is my URL data sent to a server?

No. Encoding and decoding happens entirely in your browser.

URL Encode / Decode

URL encode special characters for safe use in web addresses, or decode percent-encoded URLs.

Input

Output

Frequently asked questions

URL Encode & Decode Online — Free Percent Encoding Tool

URLs can only contain a limited set of characters. Special characters like spaces, ampersands, and brackets need to be percent-encoded before they can be used safely in a web address. Our URL encoder converts any string to a properly encoded URL component, and the decoder reverses the process.

Encode & decode

Encode any text for safe use in URLs, or decode percent-encoded strings back to readable text.

Instant results

Output updates as you type — no button needed.

Browser-only

Your data never leaves your device.

Building query strings, debugging API requests, or working with redirect URLs? URL encoding is a constant need in web development. Handle it instantly.