Hash Generator MD5 • SHA-1 • SHA-256 • SHA-512

Generate secure cryptographic hashes using industry-standard algorithms. Perfect for password hashing, file integrity checking, and digital signatures.

Secure Hashing
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File Support

Input Text or File

Enter text or upload a file to generate hashes

Enter any text, password, or data to generate its hash

Generated Hash

Your cryptographic hash result

Generate a hash to see results

MD5

128-bit hash function for general use

SHA-1

160-bit hash function (deprecated for security)

SHA-256

256-bit secure hash function

SHA-512

512-bit high-security hash function

Understanding Cryptographic Hash Functions

What are Hash Functions?

Cryptographic hash functions are mathematical algorithms that transform input data of any size into a fixed-size output called a hash or digest. They are designed to be one-way functions that are computationally infeasible to reverse.

Key Properties:

  • Deterministic: Same input always produces same hash
  • One-way: Cannot reverse engineer input from hash
  • Collision resistant: Hard to find two inputs with same hash
  • Avalanche effect: Small input changes produce large hash differences

Hash Algorithm Comparison

Different hash algorithms offer varying levels of security and performance. Choose the appropriate algorithm based on your specific use case and security requirements.

MD5 Deprecated
128-bit • Fast
SHA-1 Deprecated
160-bit • Moderate
SHA-256 Recommended
256-bit • Secure
SHA-512 High Security
512-bit • Very Secure

Common Use Cases for Hash Functions

Security Applications

  • Password storage (with salt)
  • Digital signatures
  • HMAC generation
  • Certificate thumbprints

Data Integrity

  • File integrity verification
  • Download verification
  • Database indexing
  • Version control systems

Hash Function Security Best Practices

For Password Hashing

  • Never use plain hashes for passwords
  • Use bcrypt, scrypt, or Argon2 instead
  • Always use unique salts per password
  • Implement work factor adjustments

General Security

  • Avoid MD5 and SHA-1 for security-critical applications
  • Use SHA-256 or SHA-512 for new applications
  • Combine with HMAC for message authentication
  • Regularly update deprecated algorithms