Base32 Encoder/Decoder
Encode text to Base32 or decode Base32 back to text. 100% local, no uploads.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Base32 encoding used for?
Base32 encodes binary data using a 32-character alphabet (A-Z, 2-7) selected for human readability. It is commonly used for TOTP secrets in two-factor authentication apps, DNS zone files, and anywhere encoded data might need to be manually transcribed or appear in URLs.
How is Base32 different from Base64?
Base32 uses a smaller 32-character alphabet and produces output approximately 20% larger than the original data. Base64 is more efficient for general binary transfer. Base32 is preferred when the encoded data may be manually transcribed, needs case-insensitive handling, or appears in URLs and filenames.
Why does Base32 output sometimes end with equals signs?
Padding characters (=) ensure the final encoded length is a multiple of 8 characters, which simplifies decoding and prevents ambiguous representations. Some Base32 variants omit padding for specific use cases, but the standard format always includes it.
Why does Base32 avoid characters like 0, O, 1, and I?
These characters are commonly confused in transcription and display across different fonts and screens. By using only A-Z and digits 2-7, Base32 ensures unambiguous character representation whether handwritten, displayed on screens, or transmitted through various systems.
Is my data sent to a server?
No. All encoding and decoding happens locally in your browser using JavaScript. Your data never leaves your device, ensuring complete privacy for any sensitive information you are working with.
What characters does this tool support for encoding?
The tool supports standard ASCII text encoding. For decoding, it accepts valid Base32 characters (A-Z, 2-7) along with padding characters and whitespace. Invalid characters will trigger an error message.