URL Encoder
Replace spaces, symbols and non-English characters with percent codes such as %20, so your link or parameter works safely in browsers, APIs and forms.
URL Encoder / Decoder
Safely encode or decode URLs and query strings in one click. Fast, free and no signup.
- 100% free
- No Signup
- Runs in your browser
How to encode or decode a URL
1Choose mode
Select Encode to make text URL-safe or Decode to read it.
2Paste your data
Type or paste a URL or text. The result updates instantly.
3Copy or download
Copy the output or save it as a text file.
URL ENCODING GUIDE
URL Encoder and Decoder – Encode and Decode URLs Online
Looking for a free URL encoder and decoder? Convert special characters in links and query strings into percent-encoded format, or decode them back to readable text. The tool runs in your browser, supports UTF-8 characters, and lets you choose between component and full URL encoding. No installation and no account needed.
URL Decoder
Paste an encoded URL or query string and read the original text instantly. Broken percent sequences show a clear error message.
Component or Full URL
Use Component mode for single values and Full URL mode when you want to keep the structure of the link, such as slashes, question marks and ampersands.
What is URL encoding?
URL encoding, also called percent encoding, converts characters that are not allowed or have a special meaning in a URL into a safe format. Each unsafe character is replaced with a percent sign followed by two hexadecimal digits. For example, a space becomes %20.
Encoding keeps your data intact when it travels through links, query strings, redirects and API requests.
Component vs Full URL encoding
Component mode (encodeURIComponent) encodes almost every special character, including slash, question mark, ampersand and equals sign. Use it for a single parameter value, for example a search term inside a query string.
Full URL mode (encodeURI) leaves the characters that give a URL its structure untouched. Use it when you have a complete link that only contains spaces or non-English characters.
How to encode a URL
- Select Encode: Make sure the mode is set to Encode.
- Pick a scope: Choose Component or Full URL.
- Enter your text: Paste it into the input box.
- Copy the result: Use Copy or Download to save the output.
Common uses of URL encoding
- Query strings: Pass search terms, names and values safely in links.
- API requests: Send special characters in GET parameters.
- Redirect and callback URLs: Place one URL inside another.
- Non-English text: Use Urdu, Hindi, Arabic or emoji in a link.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions About URL Encoding
Quick answers about encoding and decoding URLs and query strings.
How do I encode a URL online?
Select Encode, paste your text or link in the input box and the percent-encoded result appears right away. Copy it or download it as a file.
How do I decode a URL?
Switch to Decode mode and paste your encoded URL or query string. The readable text is shown in the result box.
What is the difference between %20 and + for spaces?
Both represent a space. %20 works everywhere in a URL, while + is only valid in the query string of form data. Turn on Use + for spaces if you need the form style.
Should I use Component or Full URL mode?
Use Component for a single value, such as a search term. Use Full URL for a complete link where you want to keep characters like slash, question mark and ampersand.
Does the tool support non-English text and emojis?
Yes. Text is processed as UTF-8, so Urdu, Hindi, Arabic, emojis and other special characters encode and decode correctly.
Why do I get a malformed URL error when decoding?
This happens when the text has a percent sign that is not followed by two valid hexadecimal digits, or when the encoded bytes are not valid UTF-8. Check the input for missing or broken sequences.
Is URL encoding the same as encryption?
No. URL encoding only changes how characters are written. Anyone can decode it, so it does not protect sensitive data.
Are my links uploaded to a server?
No. The conversion runs entirely in your browser, so your data stays on your device.
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