Base64 Decode Text
Convert Base64 strings back to readable text. Decode UTF-8 data safely.
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What is Base64 Decoding?
Base64 decoding is the process of converting a Base64 string back into its original readable form. If you have a string like SGVsbG8gV29ybGQ=, decoding it reveals the original text: Hello World.
This is essential when working with APIs, extracting credentials from headers, or debugging encoded data in JSON payloads.
Features
Instant Decoding
Paste Base64 strings and see readable text immediately.
UTF-8 Support
Decode emojis, foreign characters, and symbols correctly.
URL Safe Mode
Decode URL-safe Base64 (- and _ characters) for JWTs and URLs.
Batch Decoding
Process multiple Base64 strings line-by-line.
File Upload
Upload files with Base64 data and download decoded results.
Client-Side Only
All decoding happens in your browser. We never see your data.
How to use
- Input: Paste the Base64 string you want to decode.
- Options: Enable "URL Safe Mode" if decoding JWT tokens or URL-safe strings.
- Result: Copy the decoded text or download it as a file.
Example - Decode Basic Auth
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Base64 decoding?
Base64 decoding is the reverse process of Base64 encoding. It converts a Base64 string (like SGVsbG8gV29ybGQ=) back into its original readable text (like Hello World). This is essential for reading encoded data from APIs, email attachments, or data URLs.
When do I need to decode Base64?
Common scenarios include: (1) Reading API responses that return Base64-encoded data. (2) Extracting credentials from HTTP Basic Auth headers. (3) Debugging encoded JSON payloads. (4) Viewing image data URLs or embedded files.
Can I decode emojis and special characters?
Yes! This tool uses UTF-8 decoding, so it correctly handles Base64 strings that represent emojis (🚀), foreign languages (日本語), and special symbols (€, ñ). Standard atob() in browsers fails on UTF-8 data—our tool handles it properly.
What is URL-safe Base64 decoding?
URL-safe Base64 uses - instead of + and _ instead of / to avoid conflicts in URLs. Enable 'URL Safe Mode' when decoding strings from query parameters, JWT tokens, or file names. The tool automatically adds missing = padding.
Why am I getting 'Invalid Base64' errors?
This happens when: (1) The string contains invalid characters (not A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /, =). (2) The string length is incorrect (must be divisible by 4 after padding). (3) You're trying to decode URL-safe Base64 without enabling 'URL Safe Mode'.
How does batch mode work for decoding?
Batch mode processes each line independently. Paste a list of Base64 strings (one per line), and each will be decoded separately. Perfect for processing multiple API keys, JWT tokens, or encoded values from logs.
Can I upload a file to decode?
Yes! Click 'Upload' to load a file containing Base64 data. The tool will decode the entire contents and you can download the result as plain text.
Is my data sent to your server?
No. All decoding happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. We never see, store, or transmit your data. This makes it safe to decode passwords, API keys, tokens, or any sensitive information.
How do I extract credentials from Basic Auth headers?
Take the header value Authorization: Basic YWRtaW46c2VjcmV0MTIz, remove the Basic prefix, paste YWRtaW46c2VjcmV0MTIz into the decoder, and get admin:secret123.
What if I need to encode to Base64?
Use the 'Base64 Encode' mode toggle at the top of the tool. It's the same interface—just type your text and get the Base64 string. It supports the same UTF-8 and URL-safe options.