Base64 Decode

Information relating to base64 decode can especially be more of an interest to people with a spy mind. For instance, I have always been fully invested in detective novels and investigation series because there’s something about the stealth that gets my blood gushing through my veins. For some people, it could be a very dull and boring topic because it involves a lot of technical jargon which can confuse a lot of people. It is mostly due to this difficulty that people leave their research in the middle and find other more interesting activities to keep them occupied. This is the exact same issue that I face myself. I wasn’t born with all the information I have now nor anybody. I had to go through all those difficult phases too but I had this insatiable desire to learn all about it, which is what kept me going. I agree that the internet can be frustratingly confusing at times but it is our job to decode what it is trying to teach us. Anyways, I have decided to compile all my knowledge relating to Base64 encoding and decoding and break it down into easily consumable language. So, if you are interested to know more, keep on reading!

Base64 Decode

What Is Base64 Decoding?

Base64 decoding is a process that converts base64 data into plain easily readable text. This text is in the plain alphabet and any normal person can read it. There are many ways in which base64 data can be decoded into plain text; however, the most commonly used and easy way to do it is by using an online tool. It is quick, simple, and highly convenient. You can copy the base64 encoded data and paste it into this tool then hit convert to get a decoded version of that data. And the best part is that you can use this tool with Windows, MAC, Linux, Chrome, Edge, and Safari.

What Actually Is Base64?

Base64 is a kind of system in which all the data is compiled into sets of sixty-four digits which are further represented by six bits. It is a very special binary encoding scheme that is used in emails and web pages. It removes the issue of byte ordering and keeps the string of data composed firmly. Base64 data can be transmitted through different channels very quickly and efficiently.

Base64 Encoding Example

Now, I am going to explain one simple example of base64 encoding in this paragraph. Let’s encode the ASCII numbers 155, 162, and 233. It will be displayed as 100110111010001011101001 in binary language. Base64 encoder steams up this string of numbers into sets of six digits each such as 100110 111010 001011 101001. These strings of numbers are then decoded by the online Base64 tool into easily understandable language.

FAQs

Why is encoding needed?

Apart from the fact that encoding and decoding of classified data are counted amongst the most preferred treatment by investigative agencies, it has some other reasons as well. For instance, it is used to ensure that correct information is transferred and the correct meaning of that data is inferred. It is mostly used in email attachments where binary data is transferred. It can also be used for viewing certain special characters on web pages of the internet. So, you see? Encoding is not merely a method that ensures privacy or secrecy but also ensures correct translation.

Why is Base64 needed to transfer images?

Bas64 is needed to transfer images and other attachments so that the size of such data can be reduced. As a result, it is less likely that the data will be corrupted mid-transfer. Hence, it is a way to ensure uncorrupted data over the internet. However, it is only recommended to use Base64 for smaller pictures because the encoded size of an attachment in byte form can be larger than the actual attachment. So, in such a case, it would be better to send the image in its original form. How efficient is Base64 encoding?

There is no denying the fact that Base64 encoding is highly efficient but it is also true that it does increase the file size by at least twenty-five percent. It will definitely consume more data to transmit these files and thus increase your bandwidth bill. On the other hand, it also burdens the receiving party because the download time of such files is generally larger and consumes more bandwidth. Hence, the receiving party will also be paying higher bandwidth bills. So, it would be better to reach a mutual consensus on both ends before using this mode of data transmission.

Final Thoughts

So, this was all from my side. I hope you all enjoyed reading through this article as much as I enjoyed writing it. I tried my level best to explain all the things in as simple words as possible for me. In any case, don’t forget to share this article with your friends and colleagues so that they can benefit from it as well. In the end, I would like to remind you that you can also take advantage of this simple tool and encrypt your personal emails so that the chances of data corrupting during transmission can be reduced. Besides, it will also satisfy your detective desires.