Hash Results
Hash a File
Hash Comparison
Compare two hashes to verify file integrity or check if they match.
Cryptographic Hash Functions Explained
A cryptographic hash function converts any input into a fixed-length output (the "hash" or "digest"). The same input always produces the same output, but even a single character change produces a completely different hash. SHA-256 produces a 256-bit (64 character hex) hash. SHA-512 produces a 512-bit (128 character) hash. These functions are one-way — you cannot reverse a hash back to the original input.
When to Use Which Hash Algorithm
SHA-256 is the current industry standard for most security applications including SSL certificates, Bitcoin, and code signing. SHA-512 offers more bits of security and is preferred for password-derived keys. SHA-1 is deprecated and should not be used for security purposes — it's broken for collision resistance. MD5 is suitable only for checksums and non-security uses — never for passwords or certificates.