Base64 Encoder & Decoder

Free online Base64 encoder and decoder. Convert text and images to Base64 and decode Base64 strings instantly. Fast, secure, and easy to use. Perfect for developers!

Input

Encode Image

Output

What is Base64 Encoding?

Base64 is an encoding scheme that converts binary data into ASCII text format using 64 different characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /). It's widely used to encode binary data for transmission over text-based protocols like email, HTTP, and JSON where binary data is not supported.

Why Use Our Base64 Encoder/Decoder?

Free & No Installation: Use our Base64 tool directly in your browser without downloading or installing anything
Instant Conversion: Encode and decode Base64 data in real-time with instant results
Bidirectional: Both encode text to Base64 and decode Base64 to text in one tool
Image Support: Upload and encode images to Base64 data URIs, or decode Base64 back to downloadable images
One-Click Copy: Copy encoded or decoded text to clipboard instantly
100% Secure: All processing happens in your browser - your data never leaves your device
Unlimited Use: No file size limits or usage restrictions

How to Use Base64 Encoder/Decoder:

Encode:

Paste your plain text in the input area
Click "Encode to Base64" button
Copy the Base64 encoded result

Decode:

Paste your Base64 string in the input area
Click "Decode from Base64" button
Copy the decoded plain text result

Encode Image:

Click "Encode Image" button and select an image file
The image will be converted to Base64 data URI automatically
Use the data URI in HTML, CSS, or download the decoded image

Common Use Cases for Base64:

Image Embedding: Encode images as Base64 for embedding in HTML, CSS, or JSON without external files
API Authentication: Encode credentials for Basic Authentication headers
Data Transfer: Transfer binary data over text-based protocols like JSON or XML
Email Attachments: Encode email attachments for MIME format
URL Safe Data: Encode data for safe transmission in URLs and cookies
Web Development: Embed small icons and images directly in CSS or HTML to reduce HTTP requests

Understanding Base64 Encoding

Base64 encoding converts 3 bytes of binary data into 4 ASCII characters. The resulting text is approximately 33% larger than the original but can be safely transmitted through text-only systems. It's not encryption - anyone can decode Base64 data easily.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Is Base64 encoding secure?

No, Base64 is not encryption. It's just an encoding format. Anyone can decode Base64 data. Don't use it to protect sensitive information - use proper encryption instead.

Why does Base64 make data larger?

Base64 converts 3 bytes into 4 characters, resulting in approximately 33% size increase. This is the trade-off for making binary data safe for text-based systems.

Can I encode images to Base64?

Yes! You can encode image files to Base64 and embed them directly in HTML or CSS using data URIs. Our tool supports image encoding - just click 'Encode Image' and select your image file.

How do I use Base64 encoded images in HTML?

Simply use the Base64 data URI as the src attribute: <img src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KG..." />. This embeds the image directly without needing a separate file.