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What is Base64?

Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that converts binary data into a textual format, making it easier to transport and store. This encoding uses a set of 64 characters, consisting of:

Uppercase letters: A-Z Lowercase letters: a-z Digits: 0-9 Two additional symbols: + and /

E.g - this string in base 64 is encoded as dGhpcyBzdHJpbmcgaW4gYmFzZSA2NA==

Why Use Base64?

Base64 encoding is commonly used when there is a need to encode binary data into a format that can be safely transmitted or stored as text. Some typical use cases include:

Embedding images in HTML or CSS files Transmitting data over text-based protocols like HTTP Storing complex data in XML or JSON formats

Note: Base64 is not an encryption format, so anyone can decode it. If you want to hide data consider using an encryption algorithm. Like AES 256.

How Base64 Works

The Base64 encoding process involves:

Binary Data Conversion: The binary data is divided into 6-bit groups. Mapping to Characters: Each 6-bit group is then mapped to a corresponding character from the Base64 alphabet.

Padding: If the binary data length is not a multiple of 3 bytes, the resulting Base64 string is padded with = characters to ensure its length is a multiple of 4 characters. How to Encode and Decode Base64

Practical Examples

Web Development: Base64 is often used to encode images and include them directly in HTML or CSS files, reducing the number of HTTP requests.

Email Attachments: Email protocols such as SMTP use Base64 to encode binary files as text, ensuring they can be sent and received without data corruption.

Data Storage: Base64 is used in data serialization formats like JSON and XML to embed binary data within text documents.

Learn More About Base64

To delve deeper into Base64 encoding and decoding, explore these resources:

• MDN: MDN Doc on handling Base 64 in the web.
• RFC 4648: The official specification for Base64 encoding.
• Base64 Wiki: Comprehensive overview and history of Base64.

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