Online Hash Generator

Generate multiple types of hashes from your text instantly.

What Is a Hash Function?

A cryptographic hash function is a one-way mathematical algorithm that maps data of arbitrary size to a fixed-size string of characters. This output string is called a "hash" or "digest." Key properties include:

  • Deterministic: The same input will always produce the same hash output.
  • One-Way: It's computationally infeasible to reverse the process and derive the original input from its hash.
  • Avalanche Effect: A tiny change in the input data results in a completely different and unpredictable hash.

Common Uses of Hashing

Hashing is a fundamental concept in computer science and cybersecurity with many applications:

  • Password Security: Websites store hashes of user passwords instead of the passwords themselves. When you log in, the site hashes what you typed and compares it to the stored hash.
  • File Integrity (Checksums): You can verify that a downloaded file is not corrupted or tampered with by comparing its hash to the one provided by the source. If they match, the file is identical.
  • Digital Signatures: Hashing is a core component of digital signatures, used to ensure the authenticity and integrity of digital documents and messages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this hash generator secure?

Yes. This tool is entirely client-side, meaning all calculations are performed on your computer within your browser using the built-in Web Crypto API. Your input data is never sent over the internet to our servers.

Which hash algorithm should I use?

It depends on your needs. For modern security applications like password protection, SHA-256 or SHA-512 are the recommended standards. MD5 and SHA-1 are older and considered cryptographically broken (vulnerable to collisions), but they are still widely used and acceptable for non-security purposes like file integrity checksums where speed is a priority.

Can I get my original text back from a hash?

No. By design, cryptographic hash functions are one-way. It is not possible to reverse a hash to find the original input. This property is what makes them so essential for securely storing sensitive data like passwords.