Intro
An HTML encoder helps you convert special characters into HTML entities, while an HTML decoder reverses that process back into readable text. This is useful when working with markup, templates, user-generated content, or snippets that include characters like <, >, &, ", and '.
Encoding protects text from being interpreted as HTML. For example, if you want to display code on a web page without the browser treating it as real markup, you need to encode the special characters first. Decoding is just as useful when you receive entity-encoded content from a CMS, database, export, or API and want to read it normally again.
Typical conversions include < to <, > to >, and & to &. This makes the tool practical for developers, technical writers, email template authors, and support teams who paste HTML snippets into documentation or websites.
How to Use
1. Paste your text or HTML snippet into the input field. 2. Choose Encode to convert special characters into HTML entities. 3. Choose Decode to convert entities back into plain readable text. 4. Copy the result for use in code, documentation, emails, or a CMS.
If the text contains mixed content, review the output so you do not double-encode existing entities.
Examples
- Hello & welcome
- Encoded:
<div>Hello & welcome</div> - Decoded: Hello & welcome
"quote"may become"quote"
Tips
- Encode HTML before displaying raw code in articles or docs.
- Decode text copied from a CMS if entities make it hard to read.
- Avoid encoding the same text twice.
- Use this tool when testing forms, template output, or escaped content.
FAQ
What does HTML encoding do?
It converts special characters into safe HTML entities so browsers display them as text.
Why is & converted to &?
Because & starts an entity sequence in HTML and must be escaped when shown literally.
What is the difference between encoding and decoding?
Encoding turns characters into entities; decoding turns entities back into characters.
Can this help prevent HTML injection issues?
It helps with safe output display, but full security depends on correct context-aware escaping in your application.
What is double encoding?
It happens when already encoded text is encoded again, producing incorrect output like <.