Easily decode Base64 encoded data back to plain text with our free online converter. Learn about Base64 encoding and its common uses.

Base64 to Text Converter: Decode Base64 Online (Free Tool)

Base64 encoding is a way to represent binary data in an ASCII string format. While useful for transmitting data in text-based systems, the encoded strings aren't human-readable. Our free online Base64 to text converter allows you to easily decode these strings back to their original plain text. This guide explains what Base64 is, why it's used, and how our converter works.

What is Base64 Encoding?

Base64 is an encoding scheme that translates binary data into a sequence of 64 printable ASCII characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, and /). The "=" character is used for padding when the input data is not a multiple of 3 bytes. This encoding is crucial for transmitting binary data over channels that are designed for text, such as email or XML.

Why is Base64 Encoding Used?

Base64 encoding serves several important purposes:

• Email Attachments: Email systems primarily handle text. Base64 allows binary files (like images, audio, and documents) to be included as email attachments by converting them into a text format.
• Data URIs: Small files, such as icons or small images, can be embedded directly into HTML or CSS using Data URIs. Base64 encoding is used to represent the file's data within the URI. This reduces the number of HTTP requests a browser needs to make.
• Data Storage in Text-Based Formats: When storing binary data in configuration files, databases, or other text-based storage, Base64 provides a way to represent it safely.
• Basic Authentication: HTTP Basic Authentication uses Base64 to encode usernames and passwords for transmission over the network.

How Does Base64 to Text Conversion Work?

The decoding process is the reverse of encoding:

1. Read Base64 Characters: The encoded string is read character by character.
2. Lookup in Base64 Table: Each Base64 character is looked up in the Base64 character set to find its corresponding 6-bit binary value.
3. Combine 6-Bit Groups: The 6-bit binary groups are combined to form longer binary strings.
4. Convert to Bytes: These longer binary strings are then divided into 8-bit bytes.
5. Convert to Text: Finally, the 8-bit bytes are converted into characters using a character encoding like UTF-8.

How to Use Our Free Online Base64 to Text Converter

Using our converter is simple:

1. Visit [Your Tool URL Here - Replace with the actual URL of your tool].
2. Paste the Base64 encoded string into the input box.
3. Click the "Decode" button.
4. The decoded text will be displayed in the output box.

Example Conversions

• Base64: SGVsbG8=
• Text: "Hello"
• Base64: VGhpcyBpcyBhIHRlc3Qu
• Text: "This is a test."

Conclusion

Our free online Base64 to text converter provides a convenient way to decode Base64 strings back to their original text form. This tool simplifies working with encoded data and makes it more accessible to everyone.