Base64 Encoder & Decoder: Convert Text to Base64 Instantly

What Is Base64 Encoding?

Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that converts binary data into a set of 64 ASCII characters. It's used when binary data needs to be transmitted through text-based protocols like email, JSON, or HTTP headers.

Common Uses of Base64

HTTP Basic Authentication — credentials are Base64-encoded in headers

Data URIs — embed images directly in CSS/HTML

Email attachments — MIME encoding uses Base64

JWT tokens — payload is Base64-encoded

API data transfer — safely embed binary in JSON

How to Use the Base64 Tool

Go to the [Base64 Encoder/Decoder](/tools/base64-encoder)

Select mode: Encode or Decode

Enter your text or Base64 string

View the result instantly

Copy the output with one click

Encoding vs Encryption

**Important**: Base64 is encoding, NOT encryption.

Encoding converts data format — easily reversible, no security

Encryption protects data — requires a key to decrypt

Never use Base64 alone for sensitive data. It provides zero security.

Examples

Encoding

Input: `Hello World`

Output: `SGVsbG8gV29ybGQ=`

Basic Auth Header

`Authorization: Basic dXNlcjpwYXNzd29yZA==`

Decoded: `user:password`

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Base64 secure?

No, Base64 is an encoding scheme, not encryption. Anyone can decode a Base64 string. Don't use it for security.

Why does Base64 increase data size?

Base64 encodes 3 bytes of data into 4 characters, increasing size by approximately 33%.

Can I encode files?

This tool encodes text. For files, you'd need to read the binary content first, then encode it.