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Base32 encodes binary data using only uppercase letters and the digits 2-7, which makes it safe for contexts that are case-insensitive or don't allow certain symbols, such as some DNS records and two-factor authentication secret keys.
This tool encodes text into Base32 or decodes Base32 back into text, following the standard RFC 4648 alphabet.
How it works
Choose encode or decode, then enter your text. Encoding reads the input 5 bytes at a time and re-groups those bits into 5-bit chunks mapped to the 32-character alphabet; decoding reverses the process.
- Enter mode.
- Enter input.
- Click Calculate to see your results.
Examples
Encoding "Hello!"
The text "Hello!" encodes to "JBSWY3DPEE======" in Base32.
Who should use it
- Generating or decoding two-factor authentication secret keys.
- Encoding identifiers for systems that are case-insensitive.
Industry applications
- Software development and security
- Systems administration
Advantages
- Case-insensitive alphabet makes it safer for systems that don't preserve letter case.
- Uses only alphanumeric characters, avoiding symbols that some systems reject.
Limitations
- Produces longer output than Base64 for the same input.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming Base32 and Base64 output are interchangeable — they use different alphabets and produce different results.
- Removing the padding characters before decoding, which can cause a decode failure.
Best practices
- Keep the padding characters intact when copying Base32 output, since some decoders require exact padding to parse correctly.
Tips
- If you're troubleshooting a 2FA setup, decoding the Base32 secret can help confirm exactly what key your authenticator app is using.