mastog0d/base64-encoding-and-decoding

Base64 Encoding and Decoding

Base64-Encoding-and-Decoding

Base64 encoding is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that is commonly used to encode binary data, such as images, audio files, or any other binary content, into a text-based format. This encoding is useful when you need to transmit binary data over text-based protocols, such as email or HTTP, which may not handle binary data well.

In Base64 encoding, each group of three binary bytes (24 bits) is represented as four characters from a set of 64 different characters. The resulting encoded text is typically ASCII characters, making it safe for text-based transmission.

Here's a basic overview of how Base64 encoding works:

Divide the binary data into 6-bit chunks: Break the binary data into chunks of 6 bits each.

Convert each 6-bit chunk to a decimal value: Convert each 6-bit chunk into a decimal value, which corresponds to an index in the Base64 character set.

Map the decimal value to a Base64 character: Use the decimal value to look up the corresponding Base64 character from the Base64 character set.

Repeat the process until all binary data is encoded: Repeat steps 1-3 until all binary data is encoded.

Base64 decoding is the reverse process, where the encoded Base64 text is converted back to its original binary form.

Base64-Encoding-and-Decoding on Linux

Base64 encoding and decoding can be performed on Linux using command-line tools. The base64 command is commonly available on most Linux systems and can be used for this purpose.

Encoding a File:

To encode a file using Base64, you can use the following command:

base64 input_file > output_file.b64

Replace input_file with the name of the file you want to encode and output_file.b64 with the desired name for the encoded file.

Encoding a String:

If you want to encode a string directly from the command line, you can use the echo command along with base64:

echo -n "your_string" | base64

Base64-Encoding-and-Decoding