What is HTML Encoding?

HTML encoding converts special characters into HTML entities so they can be safely displayed in a browser without being interpreted as code.

Why is it important?

Encoding HTML helps prevent security vulnerabilities such as Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), where malicious scripts are injected into web pages.

Common Use Cases

• Displaying user input safely
• Preventing XSS attacks
• Rendering HTML as plain text
• Working with dynamic content

Example

Original: <script>alert("Hi")</script>
Encoded: &lt;script&gt;alert("Hi")&lt;/script&gt;

PHP Example

// Encode
htmlspecialchars($input, ENT_QUOTES, 'UTF-8');

// Decode
html_entity_decode($input, ENT_QUOTES, 'UTF-8');

FAQ

Does HTML encoding prevent hacking?

It helps prevent XSS attacks, but should be combined with other security practices like input validation and sanitization.

Is encoding reversible?

Yes, encoded HTML entities can be decoded back to their original form.