JWT Decoder & Encoder

Decode, verify, and build JWT tokens — entirely in your browser

Paste a JSON Web Token to instantly decode its header and payload, with pretty-printed timestamps and standard-claim tooltips. Verify HS256/HS384/HS512 signatures with your secret, or switch to Encode mode to build and sign new tokens. Everything runs client-side using the Web Crypto API — no token is ever sent to a server.

Enter the HMAC secret to verify the signature. Verification runs entirely in your browser.

Paste a JWT to decode it

Header, payload, and signature are decoded instantly in your browser — nothing is sent to a server.

Try These Examples

Basic User Token (HS256)

A simple user authentication token with standard claims

Token (truncated):

eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1c2VyXzEyMyI

Contains sub, name, email, iat, exp claims

Expired Token

A token with an exp claim in the past — demonstrates expiry warning

Token (truncated):

eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzdWIiOiIxMjM0NTY3ODk

Shows the "Token Expired" badge in action

Admin Role Token (HS512)

An authorization token with role claims using HS512

Token (truncated):

eyJhbGciOiJIUzUxMiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1c2VyXzQ1NiI

Demonstrates array claims and HS512 algorithm

What is a JSON Web Token?

A JSON Web Token (JWT) is an open standard (RFC 7519) that defines a compact, self-contained way to securely transmit information between parties as a JSON object. JWTs are commonly used for authentication and authorization in modern web applications and APIs.

Unlike traditional session tokens, a JWT carries all the information needed to verify the user's identity directly in the token — no database lookup required. This makes them ideal for stateless, distributed systems.

Common Use Cases

• Authentication — verify user identity after login

• Authorization — determine what a user is allowed to do

• Information exchange — securely transmit claims between services

• Single Sign-On (SSO) — share authentication across multiple services

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about JWT tokens, signature verification, and token security.