Base64Lab: Uses, Limits and Related Reading

A supporting tool from the Orthogonal blog

Base64Lab is a small encoding and decoding utility. Use it to inspect non-sensitive examples while reading about data formats; Base64 is an encoding, not encryption or proof that a message is authentic.

When it fits

Encode and decode Base64 text and files without pasting data into a remote form.

Text, files, images, data URIs, URL-safe, MIME wrapping, and per-line modes; 50 MB file limit.

Start with a small example

  1. Choose Encode or Decode and start with short sample text.
  2. Set URL-safe or line-wrapping options only when the receiving format requires them.
  3. Inspect the output and, where appropriate, compare a decode/encode round trip before using it elsewhere.

Limits to understand

Text encodings, whitespace, padding, and URL-safe alphabets can change results. The file control has a 50 MB limit, and processing still depends on available browser memory. Decoding a token does not verify its signature or establish that its claims are trustworthy. Do not use real session tokens as examples.

Input processing and privacy

Inspected code processes input locally. First-party aggregate telemetry and Cloudflare Analytics still load.

Local processing is not a promise of zero network requests. Read the privacy policy and use non-sensitive examples unless you have independently reviewed the application.

Related reading

This introduction describes the public tool and its limitations, not an independent security certification. Check the current application for available controls. Return to all blog articles when you are done.