How to decode a Base64 string online
Base64 is a way of representing binary data or text as ASCII characters — you will run into it in JSON payloads, JWTs, data URIs, email attachments and API responses. Decoding turns that scrambled-looking string back into readable text. The decoder below runs entirely in your browser, so even sensitive tokens never leave your device.
Open the Base64 Encode/DecodeStep by step
- 1
Open the Base64 tool
Open the Base64 Encoder / Decoder. There is nothing to install and no sign-up.
- 2
Paste your Base64 string
Paste the encoded string into the input box and switch the mode to “Decode”.
- 3
Read the decoded text
The decoded plain text appears instantly as you type. Standard and URL-safe Base64 are both handled.
- 4
Copy the result
Click copy to grab the decoded output. To go the other way, switch to “Encode” and paste plain text.
Tips
- If decoding produces gibberish, the string may be URL-safe Base64 (using - and _ instead of + and /) or may be missing its = padding — the tool tolerates both.
- A Base64 string that decodes to more Base64 is common in JWTs: decode each dot-separated segment separately, or use the dedicated JWT decoder.
- Base64 is encoding, not encryption — never treat a Base64 string as a secure secret.