Encoders / DecodersLesson 17Free preview

Base32 Encode/Decode

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Summary

Base32 is an encoding scheme that converts binary data into text using 32 characters, namely the letters A to Z and the numbers 2 to 7. Each five byte input produces eight output characters, and the equals sign is used as a padding. Base32 is larger than Base64, but the alphabet does not distinguish between capital letters so it is easier to read or type. This format often appears on secret TOTP and URI otpauth.

Key points

Using the alphabet A-Z and the numbers 2-7.
Five bytes of input yield eight output characters.
Sign = add padding to the length of the eight times
Encoding is case-insensitive when decoding
Often used for secret TOTP and authentication applications

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