The Base64 Encoder lets you safely convert plain text or binary content into a Base64 string. This encoding method is ideal when you need to transfer binary data over text-based formats like JSON, HTML, or email. You can also explore our Base64 Decoder for decoding, or UTF8 Encoder if you’re working with multilingual characters.
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Regular Expression - Documentation
What is Base64 Encoding?
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that turns binary data into an ASCII string format using a set of 64 characters. These include:
Padding with = is used if the data doesn’t fill up the required 24-bit chunks. It’s not encryption — just a safe way to encode data for text-based transmission.
How Base64 Encoding Works
Binary Conversion: The input text or file is first converted into its binary representation.
Chunking: Binary data is divided into 6-bit segments.
Mapping: Each 6-bit segment is mapped to a character in the Base64 index table.
Padding: If the last chunk is less than 24 bits, = padding is added to make it valid.
How to Encode Using Base64 in Practice
Example 1: Encoding a Text String
Input:
Binary Representation:
Base64 Output:
Example 2: Encoding a JSON Payload
JSON Input:
Base64 Output:
Example 3: Encoding an Image (binary)
A .png file encoded in Base64 can be used in HTML as:
Use Cases
Embedding images in HTML/CSS via data: URIs
Sending files or payloads in APIs where binary is not allowed
Storing small files in databases or text-based formats
Email attachments encoded as MIME Base64
Pro Tips
Shorten Payloads: Base64 increases size by ~33%. Avoid overusing for large files.
Use UTF-8 before encoding multilingual content. Try our UTF8 Encoder to prepare data.
Combine with Decoder: Pair with our Base64 Decoder for round-trip conversions.
Escape Safely: For use in URLs, use a URL Encoder afterward to escape +, /, and =.
