¿Qué es la codificación Base64?
Base64 es un sistema de codificación de binario a texto que representa datos binarios en un formato ASCII. Habitual para adjuntos, imágenes o autenticación.
Casos de Uso Comunes
- Adjuntos de correo: La codificación MIME utiliza Base64 MIME encoding uses Base64
to embed binary files in text-based emails.
- Data URLs: Incrustar imágenes en HTML/CSS Embedding images directly in
HTML/CSS using data:image/png;base64,...
- Autenticación API: Encabezado Basic Auth en HTTP HTTP Basic Auth encodes
credentials in Base64.
- Tokens JWT: Los payloads JWT se codifican en Base64URL JWT payloads are
Base64URL-encoded.
Converts data between binary and ASCII using Base64 encoding. Used for email attachments, data URLs, API payloads, and embedded images.
Key Facts
- Increases data size by ~33%
- Uses 64 characters: A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /
- base64url variant uses - and _ for URL safety
- = padding ensures output is multiple of 4
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Base64?
Binary-to-text encoding using 64-character alphabet. Ensures safe transmission through text-only channels.
Why use Base64?
For email attachments, data URLs, JSON binary data, and HTTP Basic Auth headers.
Is Base64 encryption?
No — it is encoding, not encryption. Anyone can decode it. Use AES/RSA for security.