URL

URL encoding converts special characters into a format that can be transmitted over the internet. Spaces become %20, & becomes %26, etc. It ensures URLs are valid and safe.

Encode URLs when they contain special characters, spaces, or non-ASCII characters. Always encode query parameters, form data, and user input before adding to URLs.

Characters that need encoding include: spaces, &, =, ?, #, %, +, and non-ASCII characters. Reserved characters like : / ? # [ ] @ have special meaning in URLs.