Guide
URL Decoder Guide: Decode URL-Encoded Text Safely
This guide explains how URL decoding works, when to use it, and how to troubleshoot percent-encoded values in query strings and API calls.
Quick answer: URL decoding converts percent-encoded values such as %20 or %2F back into their original readable characters so you can inspect and use them correctly.
What is URL decoding?
URL decoding converts percent-encoded characters like %20, %2F, and %3D back into readable text so you can understand a URL, query string, or parameter value.
How to decode a URL
Paste the encoded URL or query string into the input box, run the decoder, and inspect the readable output before using it in a request, redirect, or browser test.
Decode vs encrypt
URL decoding is not encryption. It simply reverses URL escaping and does not protect the information from being read by anyone who can access the string.
Common debugging scenarios
Use URL decoding when troubleshooting query parameters, redirect links, tracking values, and encoded API inputs that appear as percent-encoded text in logs or browser URLs.
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Open URL DecoderFrequently asked questions
How do I decode a URL safely?
Paste the encoded value into the tool and run it. The browser decodes it locally without sending your data elsewhere.
What is the difference between URL encode and URL decode?
Encode converts unsafe characters into percent-encoded text, while decode reverses that conversion back to readable text.
Is decode a URL the same as decrypting it?
No. URL decoding is a reversible text transformation, not encryption or decryption.