UUEncode & UUDecode | Binary to Text Encoding
Convert binary data to text using Unix-to-Unix Encoding (UUEncode) and decode it back. Supports custom filenames and permissions.
How to Use This Tool
- 1
Select 'Encode' to convert text/binary to UUEncode format.
- 2
Select 'Decode' to extract the original content from UUEncoded text.
- 3
Optionally set the 'Filename' and 'Permission' (e.g., 644) for the header.
- 4
Enter your data. The tool processes it instantly.
- 5
Copy the result, including the `begin` and `end` lines.
Use Cases & Examples
Legacy Email & Usenet
Decode attachments from old email archives or Usenet posts that use UUEncode instead of MIME.
Scripting & Automation
Generate UUEncoded blocks to embed binary files inside shell scripts (shar files) or source code.
Data Obfuscation
Simple encoding to hide data from casual view (note: this is NOT encryption and offers no security).
What is UUEncode?
UUEncode (Unix-to-Unix Encoding): A binary-to-text encoding method originating from Unix systems. It converts 3 bytes of binary data into 4 ASCII characters.
Structure: Output begins with `begin <mode> <file>` and ends with `end`. The body consists of encoded lines, each starting with a length character.
Legacy: While largely replaced by MIME (Base64), it is still used in some legacy systems and scripting environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What is the difference between UUEncode and Base64?
A. Both convert binary to text, but they use different character sets and headers. UUEncode includes file metadata (name, permissions) in the header, whereas Base64 is just the raw data stream.
Q.What do the numbers '644' mean?
A. They represent Unix file permissions (octal). '644' is a common default, meaning readable by everyone but writable only by the owner.
Q.Can I encode binary files?
A. This web tool is optimized for text. For actual binary files (images, executables), it's better to use a command-line tool, though you can paste small binary strings here.
Related Tools
Explore more developer tools
Base64 Encoder & Decoder | UTF-8, URLs & Data URI
Encode text to Base64 or decode Base64 to text with full UTF-8 support.
Quoted-Printable Encoder & Decoder | MIME Email Encoding
Encode text to Quoted-Printable or decode Quoted-Printable to text. MIME email encoding.