HTML URL Encoding | Encoding Special Characters in URLs

HTML URL Encoding is the process of converting special characters in a URL into a format that can be transmitted over the Internet. This is done to ensure that URLs remain valid and can be correctly interpreted by web servers and browsers. Encoded characters are represented as a `%` symbol followed by two hexadecimal digits.

Why URL Encoding is Necessary:

  • URLs can only contain certain characters like letters, digits, and a few special symbols (`-`, `_`, `.`, `~`).
  • Reserved characters like spaces, `&`, `=`, `/`, `?`, etc., need to be encoded for proper transmission.
  • URL encoding prevents errors when passing data through URLs.

How URL Encoding Works

Character Encoded Value
Space %20
& %26
? %3F
= %3D
/ %2F
+ %2B

Example of URL Encoding:

Suppose we have a URL with a query string: `https://example.com/search?q=hello world&lang=en`. The space in "hello world" and `&` need to be encoded.

Encoded URL Example

Original URL:
    https://example.com/search?q=hello world&lang=en
    
    Encoded URL:
    https://example.com/search?q=hello%20world&lang=en

Output

Original URL: `https://example.com/search?q=hello world&lang=en`

Encoded URL: `https://example.com/search?q=hello%20world&lang=en`

How to Encode URLs:

  • Manually replace special characters with their encoded values.
  • Use online tools or programming languages (e.g., JavaScript’s `encodeURIComponent()` function) to automate encoding.

URL encoding is an essential part of web development, ensuring data is passed safely and accurately through URLs. Proper encoding helps prevent errors and ensures compatibility with web servers and browsers.