Escape vs. encodeURI vs. encodeURIComponent: When to Use Which for URL Encoding?

When to Use escape vs. encodeURI and encodeURIComponent

When composing a query string for transmission to a web server, it is essential to understand the distinctions between escape(), encodeURI(), and encodeURIComponent().

Don't Use escape()

escape() is deprecated and actively discouraged for use. ECMAScript intentions to remove unsupported features. Moreover, it exhibits undesirable behaviors such as encoding special characters, including those not explicitly designated in the query string standard.

Use encodeURI() for Full URLs

Employ encodeURI() when operating with complete URLs. It appropriately escapes essential characters, ensuring correct URL functioning. For instance, when encoding "http://www.example.org/file with spaces.html", it would output "http://www.example.org/a file with spaces.html".

Use encodeURIComponent() for URL Parameters

Utilize encodeURIComponent() to encode the values of URL parameters. It encodes a broader range of characters than encodeURI() without affecting the URL structure. By encoding a value like "http://example.org/?a=12&b=55", one obtains "http://example.org/?a=12&b=55", allowing the parameter to be integrated into a larger URL.

Cautionary Note

Both encodeURI() and encodeURIComponent() do not escape the single quote character ('). Consequently, when constructing HTML attributes, it is crucial to employ " rather than ', or potentially introduce security vulnerabilities.

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