Online Base64 Encoder & Decoder | JSON Jetstream

Working with Base64 Encoding

Safely transmit binary data or text by converting it to the Base64 character set.

Base64 is an encoding scheme that converts binary data into a text-based format using a set of 64 ASCII characters. This is particularly useful for transmitting data over media that are designed to handle only text, such as in JSON payloads, XML files, or email attachments. For example, an image file, which is binary, can be Base64 encoded and included directly in a JSON object as a string. A Base64 encoder takes the input data (text or binary) and produces the encoded string. A decoder does the reverse, taking the Base64 string and converting it back to its original form. This is not a form of encryption, as it is easily reversible, but it is an essential tool for ensuring data integrity during transmission in text-based protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Base64 encoding?

Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data in an ASCII string format. It's commonly used to transmit data over mediums that are designed to handle text, such as email, or to embed images directly within HTML or CSS.

Is Base64 encryption?

No, Base64 is an encoding, not an encryption. It's a reversible process that transforms data into a different format, but it does not secure or protect the data from unauthorized access. Anyone can easily decode a Base64 string back to its original form.

When should I use Base64?

You should use Base64 when you need to transmit binary data (like images, audio, or compressed files) over text-based protocols, or when embedding small binary assets directly into text documents (e.g., data URIs in HTML/CSS). It ensures data integrity during transmission.

Encode and decode Base64 strings, useful for safely transmitting binary data or text in web environments.