Base64 Encoder
Base64 Result
đź“š What is Base64?
Base64 originated from MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) content transfer encoding. It refers to a group of encoding schemes that convert binary data into an ASCII string format by translating it into a radix-64 representation. This allows binary content to be safely handled in systems that are designed primarily for textual data.
🔡 Why Base64 is Used
Base64 encoding is particularly useful when binary data needs to be stored or transmitted over media that only supports text, such as email or XML. By encoding binary into a text-based format, Base64 ensures that data remains intact and unaltered during transport through text-only systems.
Common use cases include:
- Sending email attachments (via MIME)
- Embedding images or fonts in HTML/CSS
- Storing binary data in XML or JSON structures
🔤 Character Set Used in Base64
Base64 encoding uses a specific set of 64 ASCII characters. These are chosen to ensure compatibility across different platforms and systems. The standard Base64 character set includes:
- Uppercase letters: A–Z
- Lowercase letters: a–z
- Numbers: 0–9
- Two special characters: typically
+and/
While this is the standard in MIME encoding, some implementations may use different characters for the last two values (- and _ in URL-safe Base64, for example). Regardless of variation, the goal is the same: preserve binary data across systems that are not “8-bit clean” — such as older email systems.
FAQs
What is Base64 encoding?
Base64 encoding is a method of converting binary data (like text, images, or files) into a readable ASCII string format. It is commonly used for transmitting data in environments where binary formats are not supported, such as email attachments, URLs, and data storage.
How do I encode data in Base64?
Simply paste your text or upload a file into our Base64 Encoder, and it will generate the Base64-encoded output instantly.
Is Base64 encoding secure?
Base64 encoding does not provide security—it only transforms data into a text format. If you need security, use proper encryption methods.
Do you store or track my data?
No, we respect your privacy. All encoding and decoding processes happen in real-time without storing any user data.