INI to JSON Converter
Convert INI configuration files to JSON format.
About the INI to JSON Converter
We created this tool for developers and system administrators who need to convert legacy `.ini` configuration files into the modern JSON format. INI files are simple and human-readable, but JSON is the standard for web APIs, modern applications, and JavaScript-based projects. This converter bridges that gap, instantly parsing your INI data into a clean, structured JSON object.
To make this the best tool for the job, we built a robust parser that correctly handles INI sections, key-value pairs, comments, and different data types (strings, numbers, and booleans). You can choose to "pretty print" the output for readability or keep it minified for production. The entire conversion happens securely in your browser, so your configuration data is never uploaded to our servers.
How to Use the Tool
- Paste your INI formatted text into the "Input INI" editor on the left.
- The "Generated JSON" will appear on the right, updating in real-time as you type.
- Use the "Pretty Print JSON" toggle in the options panel to format the output with indentation for better readability.
- Use the buttons to copy the generated JSON, download it as a `.json` file, or clear the editors to start over.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an INI file?
An INI file is a simple text-based configuration file format. It organizes data into sections, each containing key-value pairs. It was widely used in older Windows applications (like `win.ini`) and is still used in many software configurations today for its simplicity.
Why would I convert INI to JSON?
JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is the dominant format for data exchange on the web. Converting INI to JSON is necessary when you are migrating a legacy system to a modern web-based one, working with web APIs, or using JavaScript frameworks that expect data in JSON format.
How does the tool handle data types?
Our parser is smart enough to try and convert values automatically. It will convert valid numbers (e.g., `123`, `45.6`) into JSON numbers, the words `true` and `false` into JSON booleans, and everything else into a string. Quoted strings in the INI file will have their quotes removed in the JSON output.
What happens to comments in the INI file?
Comments in an INI file (lines starting with a semicolon `;` or a hash `#`) are ignored during the conversion. The JSON format does not officially support comments, so they are discarded to produce a valid JSON output.
Is my data private?
Yes. All parsing and conversion from INI to JSON happens entirely in your web browser. Your configuration data is never sent to our servers, so you can safely use this tool with sensitive information.