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Encode Text to Base32 Encode text to Base32 format using the RFC 4648 standard alphabet.

Base32 Encode illustration
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Base32 Encode

Encode text to Base32 format using the RFC 4648 standard alphabet.

1

Enter Text

Type or paste the text you want to encode.

2

View Encoded Output

The Base32-encoded result appears instantly.

3

Copy Result

Click the Copy button to copy the encoded string.

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What Is Base32 Encode?

Base32 encoding represents binary data using 32 ASCII characters (A-Z and 2-7) as defined in RFC 4648. Every 5 bytes of input produce 8 encoded characters, with = padding when needed. The encoding is case-insensitive and avoids visually ambiguous characters (0/O, 1/I/L), making it ideal for manual entry and case-insensitive systems. Used in TOTP/HOTP secret keys, Tor onion addresses, and case-insensitive file systems. This tool encodes UTF-8 text to standard Base32 with proper padding. All processing happens in your browser.

Why Use Base32 Encode?

  • Case-insensitive encoding avoids confusion between similar characters
  • RFC 4648 compliant with proper padding
  • 100% client-side — data never leaves your browser
  • Free online tool with no signup or limits

Common Use Cases

TOTP Secrets

Encode shared secrets for two-factor authentication apps.

File Systems

Encode data for case-insensitive file systems and URLs.

Human Readability

Use when encoded data needs to be read or typed by humans.

Tor Addresses

Base32 is used in .onion v3 addresses for Tor hidden services.

Technical Guide

The encoding takes groups of 5 bytes (40 bits) and splits them into 8 groups of 5 bits. Each 5-bit value maps to A-Z (0-25) and 2-7 (26-31). Padding with = brings output to a multiple of 8 characters. Compared to Base64, Base32 uses 20% more space but provides case-insensitivity and avoids ambiguous characters. The encoding process converts input to UTF-8 bytes, processes 5 bytes at a time via bit shifting, maps each group to the alphabet, and appends = padding as needed.

Tips & Best Practices

  • 1
    Base32 is used for TOTP/HOTP secrets — important for 2FA setup
  • 2
    Output is always uppercase — Base32 is case-insensitive by design
  • 3
    Base32 is ~20% larger than Base64 but more human-friendly
  • 4
    Not encryption — Base32 provides encoding, not security

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q Is this tool free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.
Q Is my data secure?
Yes. All processing is 100% client-side.
Q How does Base32 differ from Base64?
Base32 uses 32 characters (A-Z, 2-7) and is case-insensitive, while Base64 uses 64 and is case-sensitive.
Q What browsers are supported?
All modern browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.
Q Does it handle Unicode?
Yes, text is converted to UTF-8 before encoding.

About This Tool

Base32 Encode is a free online tool by FreeToolkit.ai. All processing happens directly in your browser — your data never leaves your device. No registration or installation required.