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How to Decode CBOR Binary Data - Step by Step Guide

Step 1

Input Your CBOR Data

Let's decode your CBOR (Concise Binary Object Representation) binary data! Whether you're working with IoT devices, embedded systems, or compact data from RFC 8949 compliant sources, you have several convenient options:

•
Select input format: Choose Base64 (default) or Hex format for your CBOR binary data
•
Paste directly: Copy your CBOR data from databases, IoT applications, or MQTT brokers and paste it into the input editor
•
Upload a file: Click "Upload" to select a .cbor, .bin, or .txt file containing CBOR data
•
Try the sample: Click "Sample" to load example CBOR data and see instant decoding

Example: CBOR Input (Base64)

Here's what encoded CBOR binary data looks like:

o2RuYW1lZU1hZXZlY2FnZRgeZmFjdGl2ZfU=
Step 2

Automatic Decoding & Validation

The magic happens instantly! As soon as you input CBOR data, our advanced decoder automatically processes it in real-time. Powered by the industry-standard cbor-x library:

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Decodes binary format: Converts CBOR's compact binary to human-readable formats while preserving data integrity
•
Preserves all data types: Maintains integers, floats, strings, booleans, arrays, objects, null values, and CBOR tags
•
Validates structure: Ensures CBOR is well-formed according to RFC 8949 specifications
•
Real-time processing: Decodes instantly with automatic validation and formatting
•
Syntax highlighting: Color-coded output makes it easy to identify data structures

Example: Decoded JSON Output

The same CBOR, now decoded as readable JSON:

{
  "name": "Maeve",
  "age": 30,
  "active": true
}
Step 3

Choose Output Format

Customize your decoded output format! The decoder supports multiple output formats to match your workflow:

•
JSON format (default): Standard JSON output perfect for APIs, web applications, and JavaScript development
•
YAML format: Human-readable config format ideal for Kubernetes, CI/CD, and configuration management
•
XML format: Enterprise-friendly format for SOAP services and legacy system integration
•
CSV format: Spreadsheet-compatible format for data analysis and Excel import
Step 4

Export Your Decoded Data

Get your decoded data ready for immediate use! Multiple export options make it seamless to integrate into your workflow:

•
Copy to clipboard: One-click copying for quick pasting into your code editor, terminal, or applications
•
Download as file: Save in your chosen format (.json, .yaml, .xml, .csv) for version control or sharing
•
Real-time validation: Green checkmark confirms decoded data is valid and ready to use
•
Further processing: Use with our other tools like JSON Formatter, YAML Formatter, or JSON to Table

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CBOR decoding and why do I need it?

CBOR (Concise Binary Object Representation) decoding converts compact binary data back to human-readable formats like JSON, YAML, XML, or CSV. It's essential for debugging IoT applications, analyzing data from embedded systems, inspecting MQTT messages, or understanding data from CBOR-based APIs. CBOR is defined in RFC 8949 and is widely used where bandwidth and efficiency are critical.

Should I use Base64 or Hex input format?

Base64 is the standard for production systems. Use Base64 when receiving CBOR from HTTP APIs, cloud services, or CBOR libraries (Python's cbor2, JavaScript's cbor-x). Use Hex format when debugging protocol implementations, analyzing network packets, or working with hex dumps from embedded systems. The decoder automatically handles both formats.

Can the decoder handle large CBOR files?

Yes! The decoder efficiently handles large CBOR files, even those with thousands of records or deeply nested structures. For very large files, processing is optimized to maintain smooth performance. There's no arbitrary size limit - only your device's available memory. Once decoded, you can export to any supported format or use our table viewers for easy data analysis.

Are CBOR tags and special types decoded correctly?

Yes! The decoder fully supports CBOR tags and special data types. Date/time values (tag 0 and 1) are converted to ISO 8601 strings. Binary data (byte strings) is decoded as Base64. BigInts and large integers are handled appropriately. Decimal fractions and bigfloats are converted to their numeric equivalents. The decoder maintains data fidelity while ensuring output is valid in your chosen format.

Which output format should I choose?

Choose based on your needs: JSON for web apps, APIs, and JavaScript development. YAML for configuration files, Kubernetes manifests, and CI/CD pipelines. XML for enterprise systems, SOAP services, and legacy integrations. CSV for spreadsheet analysis, data science, and Excel import. The decoder handles the conversion automatically while preserving your data structure.

Is the CBOR decoder free to use?

Yes, completely free with unlimited decoding! No usage limits, file size restrictions (beyond device memory), registration, or hidden fees. All decoding happens locally in your browser using JavaScript and WebAssembly, which means your CBOR data never leaves your device. This ensures maximum privacy, security, and GDPR compliance. Your IoT data, sensor readings, and proprietary information remain completely private. The tool works offline once loaded.

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