What does a URL encoder / decoder do?
A URL encoder converts special characters into percent-encoded values so URLs stay valid and safe across browsers, while a URL decoder reverses the process and restores the original text.[web:221][web:224][web:232]
When should you URL-encode data?
- Encoding query parameters that contain spaces, ampersands, or non-ASCII characters before adding them to URLs.[web:225][web:229][web:235]
- Working with form submissions, redirects, or SEO-friendly URLs that require consistent percent encoding.[web:224][web:227][web:236]
- Decoding log entries or encoded URLs to debug web requests and tracking links.[web:220][web:221][web:238]