Base32 Encoder & Decoder
Encode and decode text using Base32 encoding. Commonly used in TOTP authentication, DNS records, and data transmission where case-insensitivity is required.
Base32 Encoder/Decoder
Convert text to and from Base32 format
About Base32 Encoding
What is Base32?
Base32 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that uses 32 ASCII characters (A-Z and 2-7) to represent binary data. It's designed to be more human-readable and less error-prone than other encoding schemes.
Common Use Cases
- TOTP Authentication: Two-factor authentication secret keys
- DNS Records: DNSSEC and other DNS-related applications
- Data Transmission: When case-insensitivity is required
- File Names: Encoding binary data in filenames
- QR Codes: Encoding data for QR code generation
Base32 vs Base64
| Feature | Base32 | Base64 |
|---|---|---|
| Character Set | A-Z, 2-7 (32 chars) | A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, / (64 chars) |
| Case-Sensitive | No | Yes |
| Encoding Efficiency | ~60% (5 bits/char) | ~75% (6 bits/char) |
| Human Readability | High (no confusing chars) | Medium |
| Best For | TOTP, DNS, Case-insensitive | Email, URLs, General purpose |
Advantages of Base32
- Case-insensitive (can be typed/spoken more easily)
- Avoids visually similar characters (0/O, 1/I/l)
- Safe for use in URLs and filenames
- Reduces transcription errors in human-readable scenarios
- Standard encoding for TOTP authentication secrets