Explain `base64_decode()` and `base64_encode()` in php.

 Q. Explain `base64_decode()` and `base64_encode()` in php.
Answer:

base64_encode() and base64_decode() are functions in PHP that allow you to encode and decode data using the Base64 encoding scheme. Base64 encoding is commonly used to represent binary data as a string of ASCII characters, which is useful for data transmission and storage in environments that handle text data more effectively.

base64_encode($data):

Description: Converts binary data into a MIME base64-encoded string.

Parameters:
$data: The binary data you want to encode.
Return Value: A base64-encoded string.
Example:
$data = "Hello, World!";
$encodedData = base64_encode($data);
echo $encodedData;
// Output: SGVsbG8sIFdvcmxkIQ==

base64_decode($encodedData):

Description: Decodes a MIME base64-encoded string into its original binary data.

Parameters:
$encodedData: The base64-encoded string you want to decode.
Return Value: The original binary data.
Example:
$encodedData = "SGVsbG8sIFdvcmxkIQ==";
$decodedData = base64_decode($encodedData);
echo $decodedData;
// Output: Hello, World!

These functions are commonly used when you need to transmit binary data, such as images or files, through text-based protocols, like JSON or XML. The resulting base64-encoded string is safe for use in URLs and doesn't contain characters that might be problematic in certain contexts.

It's important to note that while base64 encoding helps represent binary data as text, it's not a form of encryption. The encoded data can be easily decoded, so it's not suitable for securing sensitive information.