Base64 Encode and Decode

File to Base64 (data URL)

Base64 is a simple way of turning text and files into a safe string of letters, numbers, plus signs, and slashes. Computers use it when data must travel through systems that only handle plain text, such as emails, web addresses, data URLs, and many programming APIs. This Base64 Encode and Decode tool lets you convert in both directions instantly, without installing any software.

The main box handles everyday text. Type or paste normal text and click Encode to get its Base64 form. Paste a Base64 string and click Decode to get the readable text back. The tool is fully UTF-8 safe, which means accents, emoji, and text in languages such as Urdu, Hindi, Arabic, and Chinese survive the round trip correctly instead of breaking into strange symbols. If a pasted string is not valid Base64, you will see a clear error message instead of a confusing result. The Swap button moves the result back into the input box, which is handy when you want to encode or decode a second time.

There is also a second mode for files. Choose any small file, such as an image, and the tool converts it into a Base64 data URL that you can copy. Developers use data URLs to embed small images directly inside HTML, CSS, or JSON.

How to use

  1. Type or paste your text into the top input box.
  2. Click Encode to Base64, or Decode from Base64 if your input is already encoded.
  3. Read the converted value in the Result box below.
  4. Click Copy result to copy it, or Swap to move the result back to the input.
  5. For a file, use the File to Base64 section and choose a file from your device.
  6. Copy the complete data URL from the file output box and use it where needed.

Frequently asked questions

Is Base64 a form of encryption?

No. Base64 is only an encoding format. Anyone can decode it instantly, so never use it to hide passwords, keys, or private information.

Is my text or file uploaded?

No. All processing is local in your browser. Your text and files stay on your device and are never sent to any server.

Why did decoding show an error?

The input was probably not complete or valid Base64. Check for missing characters, accidental spaces inside copied text, or extra words pasted by mistake, then try again.

Why is Base64 output longer than the original?

Base64 represents every three bytes of data with four characters, so the output is normally about one third larger than the original content.