Base32 Encoder/Decoder

What is Base32?

Base32 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that uses 32 characters to represent binary data. It uses only uppercase letters and digits, making it case-insensitive and suitable for systems that don't distinguish between upper and lowercase. Base32 is commonly used in TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) applications like Google Authenticator, as well as in various network protocols and distributed systems.

Variants:

• Standard (RFC 4648): Uses A-Z and 2-7. Most common variant, used in TOTP/OTP applications
• Extended Hex: Uses 0-9 and A-V. Preserves sort order of encoded data

How to Use:

1. Select "Encode" mode to convert text to Base32, or "Decode" mode to convert Base32 back to text
2. Choose the Base32 variant: Standard (RFC 4648) or Extended Hex
3. Enter your text or Base32 string in the left input box
4. The result will automatically appear in the right output box
5. Use "Swap" button to quickly reverse the process with the output

Common Use Cases:

• TOTP/2FA secret keys (Google Authenticator, Authy)
• Encoding data for case-insensitive systems
• Geohash encoding for location data
• Network protocols (DNSCurve, ZBase32)
• Distributed hash table (DHT) implementations

Advantages:

• Case-insensitive (can be spoken over phone or written down)
• No special characters that might be confused (0 vs O, 1 vs I vs l)
• Suitable for human transcription
• Works well in URLs and file names