How to Encode and Decode Base64 in Lua

Learn how to use an external library and a useful example to perform Base64 encoding and decoding in Lua. Learn how to encode binary data into a text-based format and then decode it to improve your Lua programming skills for data manipulation.

What is Base64?

Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding technology used to transfer digital data into a text-based communication format. This is performed by transforming binary data into a series of printable ASCII characters, allowing for secure transmission through a variety of text-oriented protocols. When binary data, such as images or files, must be represented using just readable characters, this encoding method is often used.Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding technology used to transfer digital data into a text-based communication format. This is performed by transforming binary data into a series of printable ASCII characters, allowing for secure transmission through a variety of text-oriented protocols. When binary data, such as images or files, must be represented using just readable characters, this encoding method is often used.

What is Lua?

Lua is a lightweight scripting language that is frequently used to give scripting capabilities within larger systems. It is well-known for its ease of use, quickness, and simplicity. Lua’s simple syntax and small runtime make it suited for a wide range of applications, from video game scripting to embedded system development. Its simple design allows it to be easily altered and extended to meet individual needs.

Base64 Encoding & Decoding in Lua

The standard library of the Lua programming language lacks native support for Base64 encoding and decoding. The encoding and decoding logic can, however, also be implemented independently or by using external libraries.

You can use third-party libraries that offer Base64 capabilities to encode and decode data using Base64 in Lua. The “luacrypto” package, which offers cryptographic operations like Base64 encoding and decoding, is one well-liked choice.

Example of Base64 Encoding and Decoding in Lua

Here is how to encode and decode Base64 using the “luacrypto” library:

1. Installing the “luacrypto” library is the first step. Utilizing the LuaRocks package management, you may achieve this:

luarocks install luacrypto

2. Once the library is installed, you can use it in your Lua code:

local crypto = require("crypto")
 
local binary_data = "B64Encode"
local encoded_data = crypto.base64.encode(binary_data)
print("Encoded:", encoded_data)
 
local decoded_data = crypto.base64.decode(encoded_data)
print("Decoded:", decoded_data)

In this example, we load the “crypto” module from the “luacrypto” library and use its base64.encode function to encode binary data to Base64 and base64.decode function to decode Base64-encoded data back to binary.