Base32 is an encoding method that converts text or binary data into a format using only 32 safe characters (A-Z, 2-7). It's ideal for case-insensitive systems, human-readable identifiers, and situations where certain characters might cause issues. Base32 avoids confusing characters like 0, 1, 8, 9 making it perfect for manual entry and voice communication.
Two-Factor Authentication: TOTP secret keys and backup codes
Human-Readable IDs: Short URLs, invitation codes, and user IDs
Case-Insensitive Systems: File names on Windows, email addresses
Voice Communication: Phone support codes that avoid confusion
QR Codes: More efficient encoding for alphanumeric data
Character Set: Uses 32 characters: A-Z and 2-7 (excludes 0, 1, 8, 9)
Encoding Process: Converts every 5 bytes of input into 8 Base32 characters
Padding: Adds = characters for proper alignment (optional with Remove Padding)
Output Size: Encoded data is approximately 60% larger than the original
Case Handling: Typically uppercase output, case-insensitive decoding