Need to convert browser cookies between Netscape, JSON, and TXT formats? Use our Cookie Converter for fast, reliable conversion with examples and format help.
This guide explains cookie formats (Netscape, JSON, TXT), how to convert between them safely, common errors, and quick validation tips.
What is Netscape / JSON Cookie Format?
TXT-style cookie lists are simple name=value pairs or custom delimited rows. Our tool handles these variants and maps them to Netscape or JSON as needed.
Why Cookie Format Conversion Matters
Exporting cookies from browser tools often yields Netscape-format files but many scripts require JSON. Converting manually is error-prone. The Cookie Converter automates format mapping and fixes common issues.
Supported Input & Output Formats
- Input size: supports small-to-medium cookie files (single file up to several MB)
- Fields required for JSON conversion: name and value; optional: domain, path, expires, secure
- For Netscape output: domain, path, secure flag, expiry are included where available
- Tool trims whitespace and fixes common delimiter issues automatically
Note: Always validate the converted file in your target tool. The converter aims to preserve essential fields but some custom tools may expect extra fields.
How Our Cookie Converter Works
- Instant conversion between Netscape, JSON, and TXT cookie formats
- Client-side processing option (where supported) for privacy
- Automatic field mapping and validation
- Example inputs shown to reduce user errors
- No signup required and minimal UI for quick workflows
The process is simple and works on mobile and desktop. Use the converter on our website to convert or download cookie files in your desired format.
Step-by-Step Conversion Guide
- Paste Sample: If you don’t have a file, paste a small sample of cookie lines or JSON array.
- Fix Issues: Use the validation hints to fix missing fields or encoding problems.
- Export: Export the converted result or copy it to clipboard for quick use.
- Load Into Script: Use the converted cookies in your automation or browser tool.
- Repeat: Repeat for other formats as needed.
Preparation Tips for Reliable Cookie Conversion
- Export cookies from browser devtools or an extension in Netscape (cookies.txt) or JSON format.
- Open the file in a text editor to ensure it has cookie name=value pairs or valid JSON array.
- If using JSON, ensure each cookie object has at least `name` and `value` fields.
- Remove any extra comments or non-cookie lines before conversion.
Common Cookie Conversion Errors & Solutions
| Common Error | Solution |
|---|---|
| Incorrect expiry format | Convert expiry to Unix timestamp or remove if not needed |
| Missing name/value field | Ensure each cookie has `name` and `value` |
| Delimiter mismatch in TXT | Use standard name=value with one cookie per line |
| Extra comment lines in cookies.txt | Remove comment lines before converting |
| Encoding issues | Ensure UTF-8 encoding before conversion |
| Invalid JSON structure | Fix JSON syntax or paste a valid JSON array |
Digital vs Exported Cookie Files
- Exported Cookie Files: Use browser or extension exports (cookies.txt or JSON) for accuracy.
- Programmatic JSON: Ensure your JSON objects have correct fields before converting.
- Best Practice: Always validate converted output in a sandboxed environment before production use.
Pro Tips for Reliable Cookie Conversion
- Preview converted output before downloading
- Test with a small sample cookie file first
- Keep backups of originals before converting
- Use UTF-8 encoding to prevent character corruption
- Validate domain/path fields if sessions fail after import
Final Checklist Before Using Converted Cookies
- ✓ Input format correctly detected
- ✓ Output format chosen (Netscape / JSON / TXT)
- ✓ Name and value fields preserved
- ✓ Domain and path fields present if required
- ✓ Encoding: UTF-8
- ✓ Test in a non-production environment first
Frequently Asked Questions
It accepts Netscape cookies.txt, JSON array cookie exports, and simple name=value TXT lists. The tool auto-detects the format.
We process data client-side where possible. If server-side conversion runs, we do not permanently store files and remove them after processing. Check the tool UI for the current behaviour.
Yes for most small-to-medium files. For very large exports, try splitting into smaller files to ensure smooth processing.
The tool preserves secure, expiry, domain, and path fields when available in the input.
No, the basic conversion is free and doesn’t require an account.