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Protobuf Inspector

Protobuf Inspector

VS Code extension that lets you deserialize and serialize Protobuf messages

Apr 11, 2026 Developer Tools
protobuf serialization vscode

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Protobuf Inspector

About

The Protobuf Inspector VS Code extension lets you decode and encode Protobuf messages without ever leaving the editor.The problem it solves: Working with Protobuf binaries usually means copy-pasting Base64/Hex blobs into external tools, maintaining separate scripts, or wrestling with protoc. I wanted something that just works from the .proto file itself.What it does:CodeLens on every message — click "Inspect <MessageName>" above any message definition to instantly open a decode/encode panel for itDecode tab — paste a Base64 or Hex payload, hit Decode, get readable JSON with full field names from your schemaEncode tab — paste JSON, hit Encode, get the binary payload backGenerate Template — auto-fills a skeleton JSON with all fields, nested messages, repeated fields, and enums, so you don't have to remember the schemaLive schema reload — save your .proto file and the panel updates automaticallyCommand Palette — works even without a .proto file open (opens a file picker)No external dependencies — everything runs inside VS Code, no protoc, no CLI, no Python scripts.GitHub: https://github.com/Gabor-Katona/protobuf-inspector

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