Punycode Converter

What Is Punycode

Punycode is a way to encode Unicode characters, such as letters with accents or scripts from languages like Chinese, Arabic, or Russian, into a format that uses only ASCII characters (A–Z, 0–9, and hyphens). This makes internationalized domain names (IDNs) compatible with the Domain Name System (DNS), which supports only ASCII.

For example: Unicode: café → Punycode: xn--caf-dma

This converter lets you decode Punycode back into readable Unicode text, making it easy to understand, verify, and work with international web addresses and email identifiers.

How to Use the Punycode Converter

• Enter Punycode: Paste or type your Punycode string into the top “Input” box labeled “Enter Punycode here.”
• Instant Conversion (Auto Update Enabled): The tool automatically converts your input in real time, no need to click anything. The output will instantly appear below.
• Use the Convert Button (Optional): If you disable Auto Update by unchecking the checkbox next to it, you can manually trigger the conversion by clicking the Convert button.
• View and Copy the Output: The converted result will appear in the “Output” box. Use the copy icon to quickly copy the result.
• Additional Controls: Use the reset or “Reverse” button with swap icons to clear fields or move content between input and output as needed, respectively.

What are the potential use cases of this tool?

• Debugging Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs): Web developers and IT admins can use the converter to inspect or validate domain names containing non-ASCII characters, ensuring correct redirection, DNS setup, and browser behavior.
• Verifying Multilingual Email Addresses: Email addresses with non-English characters often use Punycode behind the scenes. This tool helps decode them to confirm display names or troubleshoot delivery issues.
• Supporting Globalized Web Applications: If your app handles URLs or user input in multiple languages, converting between Punycode and Unicode ensures proper display and processing of international characters.
• SEO and Digital Marketing: SEO professionals can verify how international domains appear to users and search engines, helping improve localization and user trust across different regions.
• Understanding Encoded URLs in Logs and Reports: System or analytics logs may show domain names in Punycode format. This converter helps decode those entries for easier analysis and troubleshooting.
• Security and Phishing Detection: Punycode can sometimes be used for spoofing domains. By decoding a suspicious domain, users can spot visually deceptive characters used in phishing attempts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does this IDN Converter tool do?

This tool converts Punycode (used in internationalized domain names and email addresses) into readable Unicode text, and vice versa. It helps you see the actual characters behind encoded URLs or strings.

What is Punycode used for?

Punycode allows domain names and email addresses to include non-English characters by encoding them into an ASCII-compatible format that browsers and DNS systems can understand.

Can I use this tool to encode Unicode to Punycode?

Yes! Click the Reverse button to switch the tool to encode mode. You can then input Unicode and get the corresponding Punycode.

Is my input or output data saved?

No. This tool works entirely in your browser. Your input never leaves your device, making it secure and private.

What characters are supported?

The tool supports all valid Punycode strings and converts characters from any language or script supported by Unicode, including accents, emojis, and non-Latin characters.