What is the URL Encode/Decode?
The URL Encoder and Decoder converts text so it can be used safely inside a web address. Characters like spaces, ampersands, question marks and non-English letters have special meaning in URLs, so they are replaced with percent codes such as %20. You can also decode a percent-encoded link back to readable text to see what it really contains.
How to use the URL Encode/Decode
- Paste the text, query value or link piece into the box.
- Click Encode to convert special characters into percent codes.
- Click Decode to turn percent codes back into normal characters.
- Copy the result and use it in your link, form or code.
Benefits and use cases
- Developers building query strings and API requests.
- Marketers checking tracking links and campaign parameters.
- SEO specialists reading encoded URLs from analytics reports.
- Anyone who wants to share a link containing spaces or special characters.
Tips for best results
Encode only the values that go inside a query string, not the entire address, or the link may stop working. A space is written as %20 and an ampersand as %26. When you read tracking links, decode them to see the hidden parameters. If a link still looks broken after encoding, check that it has not been encoded twice.
ToolZen tools run in your browser, so your input is not uploaded to a server. Bookmark this page and come back whenever you need it. There is nothing to install and no account to create.
Frequently asked questions
What is URL encoding?
It replaces unsafe characters in a URL with a percent sign followed by two hexadecimal digits.
Does it encode a whole URL or just a part?
It encodes everything you paste, including slashes and colons. Encode only the part that needs it, such as a query value.
Why does decoding show an error?
The text may contain a percent sign that is not followed by a valid code.
Is anything sent to a server?
No. The conversion runs in your browser.