URLs can only contain certain characters, so spaces and symbols must be percent-encoded. This tool encodes text for safe use in links and decodes encoded URLs back to readable text.
It runs entirely in your browser.
How to use the URL Encoder / Decoder
- Paste your text or encoded URL.
- Choose encode or decode.
- Copy the result.
Why URLs need encoding
URLs only allow certain characters. Spaces, quotes, ampersands inside values, non-English letters and symbols must be percent-encoded, which is why a space becomes %20 and an ampersand becomes %26. Without encoding, a query value containing an ampersand silently splits into two parameters, one of the classic hard-to-spot web bugs.
Encoding the right amount
The most common mistake is double encoding, where an already encoded value is encoded again and %20 becomes %2520. If a decoded string still contains percent signs followed by digits, it was encoded twice; decode again. The other classic is encoding a full URL when only a parameter value needed it, which breaks the slashes and colons of the address itself.
Common uses
- Building query strings with special characters safely
- Decoding tracking links and API URLs to read their parameters
- Fixing double-encoded values in redirects
- Preparing text for use inside links and callbacks
Frequently asked questions
Is it free?
Yes, free with no signup.
Is my input uploaded?
No. It is processed in your browser.
When do I need URL encoding?
When a link contains spaces, symbols or non-English characters that must be made safe for a URL.
Does it decode too?
Yes. It both encodes and decodes URL text.