HTML encoder and decoder

This HTML encoder and decoder widget allows you to quickly convert text into HTML entities or revert existing HTML back into readable text. The widget is designed for use in web development, content security, and input validation. In short, anywhere you need to control how HTML-sensitive characters are displayed.

• Encode HTML: Converts characters like <, >, &, ", and ' into safe HTML entities such as <, >, &, ", and ' so they aren't interpreted as HTML by the browser.
• Decode HTML: Converts HTML entities back into their original characters, allowing you to use or edit the original content in plain text.

Why encode HTML?

When you insert text into an HTML page, there's a risk that certain characters might be interpreted as HTML instructions rather than regular content. Think of <script>, &, or ". If these aren't correctly encoded, they can cause unexpected formatting or even lead to security vulnerabilities like cross-site scripting (XSS).

For instance, encoding <h1> as <h1> makes it display as text rather than an actual HTML tag. This is crucial when showing user input, code examples, or untrusted data on a webpage.

The encoding function in this widget uses a character range that is read and converted to HTML entities. This means a simple regular expression is present, but no manual mapping is applied.

What does decoding Do?

The reverse process, decoding, is just as important. You often receive HTML entities from external sources or saved files that you need to make readable again. For example, "Hello World!" should simply become "Hello World!" in plain text. This widget decodes that using a template element, which provides direct access to the plain text of HTML entities via the DOM.

Because decoding occurs via a native browser mechanism, you don't need to worry about incomplete or erroneous conversions. What you enter into the field appears quickly and correctly.

Typical applications

HTML encoding and decoding is standard practice in daily front-end and back-end development. Here are a few common situations where this widget is particularly useful: for example, when displaying code examples or user input on a website without the risk of the browser executing them as HTML or JavaScript. It's also handy when writing blogs, documentation, or CMS content where you want to visibly show HTML structures. Additionally, it's necessary for converting encoded content from APIs, emails, or external data sources back into editable text.

Related tools

• Base64 encoder and decoder: Quickly encode or decode Base64 data with this widget. Simplify binary-to-text conversion for transmission, web development, email attachments, and API data.
• URL encoder and decoder: Easily encode or decode URLs with this tool, ensuring safe transmission and SEO-friendly URLs. Perfect for web development and query string handling.

Widget created with Staark