JWT Decoder
Decode and analyze JSON Web Tokens. Tokens never leave your browser.
How JWT Decoder Works
What is a JSON Web Token?
A JWT is a compact, URL-safe token used for authentication and information exchange. It consists of three Base64url-encoded parts separated by dots: Header, Payload, and Signature.
The header specifies the algorithm, the payload carries the claims (user data, expiration, etc.), and the signature verifies integrity.
How to Use
- Paste a JWT token (starting with
eyJ) into the input field. The output updates live. - The decoded header and payload are displayed as formatted JSON.
- Token metadata (algorithm, expiration, status) appears below the output.
- Click the lightbulb icon to load a sample JWT for testing.
JWT Structure
| Header | Algorithm (alg) and token type (typ) |
| Payload | Claims: sub, iat, exp, iss, aud, custom data |
| Signature | HMAC or RSA signature to verify the token was not tampered with |
Important Notes
- This tool only decodes JWTs. Signature verification requires the secret key and should be done server-side.
- JWTs are not encrypted. Anyone with the token can read the payload. Never store secrets in JWT claims.
- Always check the
expclaim to ensure a token has not expired before trusting its contents.
Privacy & Security: All decoding runs entirely in your browser. No tokens are sent to any server.