The short answer
Base64 represents binary data using a limited set of ASCII characters. It is common in data URLs, email attachments, and APIs that prefer text payloads.
It is not encryption
Anyone can decode Base64. Do not treat it as a way to hide secrets. Bratora’s Base64 tools run in your browser so the text you encode stays on your device.
Open Base64 Encoder
Opens the matching Bratora tool for this guide.
FAQ
Why does Base64 make files larger?
Encoding expands size by roughly a third because it uses fewer bits per character.