URL encoding converts reserved characters into percent-encoded sequences so links can travel safely across the web. Decoding reverses this process, revealing the original characters and structure. Your tool focuses on robust decoding even when a link has been encoded multiple times, letting you inspect the actual destination rather than the unreadable string seen in browsers or analytics logs.
Beyond simple decoding, the tool strips common tracking parameters, converts internationalised domain names, and offers canonicalisation options such as lowercase hosts or sorted query keys. These refinements produce a concise, privacy-respecting address that you can copy, share, or open directly. Reviewing parameters, components, and alternative encodings helps you trace link provenance and prevent phishing or mis-attribution.
Use this decoder when analyzing referral logs, verifying shortened links, or cleaning URLs before sharing with colleagues; always double-check that the resulting link points to an expected domain, because following an unfamiliar address may expose you to malicious content and compromise personal data, especially when handling sensitive or private information across teams or public channels.
Technical Details:
The decoder runs entirely in the browser, using a reactive scripting layer to process the input string and update the interface instantly without network calls. It leverages the built-in URL API for safe parsing, a punycode conversion helper for international domains, and standard clipboard operations for copy actions, ensuring zero data leaves your device.
Multi-Level Decoding
Apply decode-URI iterations up to eight times, rescuing heavily nested or repeatedly encoded links encountered in complex redirection chains or email campaigns.
Tracker Stripping
Automatically remove common analytics parameters like utm_source or fbclid, delivering a privacy-clean address that loads faster and hides referrer data from third-party services.
IDN Conversion
Transform punycode hostnames into readable Unicode, improving transparency when inspecting internationalised links and reducing phishing risk by revealing deceptive homograph substitutions.
Canonicalisation Options
Toggle lowercase hosts, remove www prefixes, trim trailing slashes, and sort query keys, producing a single canonical form useful for deduplication or SEO audits.
Comprehensive Analysis Tabs
Switch between info, parameter list, component breakdown, and alternate encodings to understand every aspect of a link, all within a responsive, tabbed panel.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Follow these steps to decode and clean a link:
- Select the Encoded URL: field and paste or type your link.
- Press Enter or click outside the field; decoding runs automatically.
- Click Advanced and enable switches such as Multi-level decode or Strip trackers for extra processing.
- Review the Decoded URL summary box; hit Copy to place the result on your clipboard.
- Choose Open to test the link in a new tab or Share to copy it for messaging apps.
- Explore the Info, Parameters, Components, and Encodings tabs for deeper inspection.
FAQ:
Find quick answers to common questions.
What is multi-level decode?
It repeats decoding up to eight times to reveal deeply encoded URLs.
Why are parameters removed?
They are common trackers; removing them improves privacy and URL clarity.
Is my data stored?
No. All processing happens locally in your browser; nothing is transmitted.
Why do I see “Invalid URL input”?
The text is not a valid link. Include protocol like https:// for parsing.
Can I decode Base64 links?
The Encodings tab shows Base64 output; use external tools to reverse it.
Troubleshooting:
If results seem unexpected, check these points:
- No output appears: ensure the input includes a valid scheme such as https://.
- Special characters remain: enable Multi-level decode.
- Trackers persist: confirm Strip trackers is switched on.
- IDN not converted: verify the international domain option is active and the link uses punycode.
- Clipboard copy fails: check browser permissions or try keyboard shortcuts.