URL Parser & Encoder/Decoder

Parse URLs into components, encode/decode URL strings, and extract query parameters. Perfect for web developers working with URLs and APIs.

URL Breakdown
Encode/Decode
Query Params
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URL Parser & Encoder/Decoder

Enter a URL to parse its components or encode/decode URL strings.

URL Parser

URL Components

Protocol -
Domain -
Port -
Path -
Hash -

URL Encoder/Decoder

Result

Understanding URLs

Learn about URL structure and encoding best practices.

URL Structure

A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) consists of several components:

  • Protocol: https:// or http://
  • Domain: example.com
  • Port: :8080 (optional, defaults to 80 for HTTP, 443 for HTTPS)
  • Path: /path/to/page
  • Query String: ?key=value&foo=bar
  • Fragment/Hash: #section

URL Encoding

URL encoding converts special characters into percent-encoded format (%XX) so they can be safely transmitted in URLs. Spaces become %20, & becomes %26, etc. This prevents conflicts with reserved URL characters and ensures proper data transmission.

Query Parameters

Query parameters pass data to web servers via URLs. They start with ? and use key=value pairs separated by &. Understanding query parameters is essential for API development, analytics tracking, and dynamic web applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about URL parsing and encoding.

When should I URL encode?

Always encode URL parameters that contain special characters, spaces, or non-ASCII characters. This includes user input, dynamic values, and any data that might contain reserved characters like &, =, ?, or #.

What's the difference between encodeURI and encodeURIComponent?

encodeURI encodes entire URLs but preserves special URL characters like :, /, ?, &. encodeURIComponent encodes everything, including those characters, making it suitable for encoding individual parameter values.

Can I parse URLs without this tool?

Yes! In JavaScript, use the URL API: new URL('https://example.com/path'). In Python, use urllib.parse. This tool provides a quick visual breakdown without writing code.

What are common encoding mistakes?

Double-encoding (encoding already encoded values), forgetting to encode user input, and using encodeURI when encodeURIComponent is needed. Always decode before processing and encode when building URLs.