ToolbitProtobuf Wire Format Decoder
Paste hex or Base64 protobuf bytes and see the field numbers, wire types, and values inside. Perfect for debugging a gRPC call when the schema is on someone else's laptop.
What the Protobuf Decoder does
- Schema-less decoding straight from the wire format.
- Shows field number, wire type, and the decoded value for each entry.
- Recursively expands nested length-delimited messages.
- Accepts hex, Base64, and escaped byte-string input.
How to use it
- Copy the raw protobuf payload as hex or Base64.
- Paste it into the input panel.
- Walk the decoded field list to identify each value.
Why it runs locally
Toolbit has no backend. The Protobuf Decoder is implemented with standard browser APIs, so your input is processed in the tab and never uploaded, logged, or retained. That is what makes it safe to paste real data into — and it is also why the tool keeps working with the network disconnected, once you have installed Toolbit as an app.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need the .proto file?
- No. The decoder reads the wire format directly, so you get field numbers and values even without the schema. With the schema in hand you can then map numbers to names.
- Can it decode gRPC frames?
- Yes, once you strip the 5-byte gRPC length prefix from the frame and paste the message bytes.
- Is the payload uploaded?
- Local transformations process input in your browser. HTTP and WebSocket tools send user-initiated requests. Optional product analytics is off by default, excludes tool input and output, and stays off when your browser signals Do Not Track or Global Privacy Control.