What is URL Encoding?
URL encoding, also known as percent-encoding, is a mechanism for encoding information in a Uniform Resource Identifier (URI). It converts characters into a format that can be transmitted over the Internet. URLs can only be sent over the Internet using the ASCII character set.
When to Use URL Encoding?
You should use URL encoding when:
- Including special characters in query parameters
- Passing data in URLs that might contain spaces or non-ASCII characters
- Creating URLs dynamically with user input
- Working with APIs that require encoded parameters
Examples
Decoded URL:
https://example.com/search?q=hello world&page=1
Encoded URL:
https://example.com/search?q=hello%20world&page=1
Who Uses This Tool?
Developers
For API calls, dynamic URL generation, and web applications.
SEO Specialists
For analyzing and optimizing URLs for search engines.
Marketers
For creating tracking URLs and campaign links.