URL Encode and Decode

About the URL Encode and Decode

Web addresses can only contain certain characters. URL encoding replaces others, such as spaces and symbols, with a percent sign and a code. This tool encodes text for use in a URL and decodes encoded text back to its readable form.

How to use the URL Encode and Decode

1. Type or paste text, or an encoded string, into the box.
2. Click Encode to convert special characters to percent codes.
3. Click Decode to turn percent codes back into normal characters.

Good to know

• A space becomes %20 and an ampersand becomes %26. These codes keep a value from breaking the meaning of the URL.
• The tool encodes everything that is not a plain letter, digit or one of a few safe symbols, including slashes and colons. Use it for single values such as search terms, not for an entire address.
• If decoding shows an error, the text contains a percent sign that is not followed by a valid code.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I see %20 in links?

It is the code for a space. URLs cannot contain a real space.

Can I encode a whole link?

You can, but the slashes and colons will also be encoded and the link will stop working as a link. Encode only the parts that change, such as a query value.

Does it support non-English characters?

Yes. Characters such as é or Urdu letters are encoded as UTF-8 percent codes.