Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that converts binary data into ASCII text format. It uses 64 characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /) to represent binary data, making it safe for transmission over text-based protocols like email, HTTP, JSON, and XML.

Base64 encoding works by taking binary data and converting it into a string of ASCII characters. Each Base64 character represents 6 bits of data, meaning every 3 bytes (24 bits) of input becomes 4 Base64 characters. The encoding process ensures that binary data can be safely transmitted through systems that only support text.

• APIs and Web Services: Encoding binary data in JSON responses, embedding images or files in API payloads
• JWT Tokens: Base64URL encoding is used in JSON Web Tokens for encoding header and payload sections
• Email Attachments: MIME encoding uses Base64 to attach binary files to emails
• Data URIs: Embedding images directly in HTML/CSS using data URIs (data:image/png;base64,...)
• Database Storage: Storing binary data in text-based database fields
• HTTP Basic Authentication: Encoding username:password credentials
• Configuration Files: Encoding certificates, keys, and other binary data in config files

It's important to understand that Base64 is encoding, not encryption. Encoding transforms data format for transmission or storage, but it does not provide security. Anyone can decode Base64 data without a key. For security, use encryption algorithms like AES, RSA, or other cryptographic methods.

Our Base64 encoder/decoder fully supports UTF-8 encoding, which means it can handle Unicode characters including emojis, international characters, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and other special symbols. The tool properly encodes and decodes UTF-8 strings, ensuring your data remains intact throughout the encoding/decoding process.

All Base64 encoding and decoding operations happen entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your data never leaves your device, is never sent to any server, and is never stored. This privacy-first approach ensures that sensitive information like passwords, API keys, or personal data remains completely private and secure.