SmartQueryTools

URL Encode & Decode

Percent-encode strings for safe use in URLs or decode percent-encoded strings back to plain text. Supports full URI and component encoding. Runs in your browser.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?

encodeURI encodes a full URL and leaves characters like /, ?, &, and # unencoded. encodeURIComponent encodes a single value meant to be a query parameter, so it also encodes /, ?, and &. This tool uses encodeURIComponent, which is what you need when encoding individual parameter values.

What characters get percent-encoded?

All characters except letters, digits, and - _ . ! ~ * ' ( ) are encoded. Spaces become %20. For example, "hello world" becomes "hello%20world".

When would I use URL encoding?

Whenever you pass values in a query string — for example, search terms, file paths, or API parameters that contain spaces, slashes, or special characters. Without encoding, those characters break the URL structure.

Is my data private?

Yes — completely. Everything runs locally in your browser. Nothing is sent to any server, and nothing is retained after you close the tab.

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