Hash Generator

Generate cryptographic hashes from text or files with support for multiple SHA algorithms

Input Text

Characters: 0 | Bytes: 0

Hash Algorithm:

Quick Examples:

Generated Hash

Algorithm: SHA-256

About Cryptographic Hashing

What are Hash Functions?

Hash functions are mathematical algorithms that convert input data of any size into a fixed-size string. They are deterministic, meaning the same input always produces the same hash, and are designed to be irreversible.

Common Use Cases

  • • File integrity verification
  • • Password storage (with salt)
  • • Digital signatures and certificates
  • • Blockchain and cryptocurrency
  • • Data deduplication
  • • Checksum validation
Security Note

SHA-1 is considered cryptographically broken and should not be used for security-critical applications. Use SHA-256 or higher for security purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a hash function?

A hash function is a cryptographic algorithm that converts input data of any size into a fixed-size string of characters, called a hash or digest. The hash is unique to the input data - even a tiny change in the input produces a completely different hash. Hash functions are one-way, meaning you cannot reverse the hash to get the original data.

What's the difference between SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384, and SHA-512?

These are different SHA (Secure Hash Algorithm) variants. SHA-1 produces 160-bit hashes (legacy, not recommended for security). SHA-256 produces 256-bit hashes (most commonly used, good balance of security and speed). SHA-384 produces 384-bit hashes. SHA-512 produces 512-bit hashes (most secure, but slower). For most applications, SHA-256 is recommended.

How do I generate a hash?

To generate a hash: 1) Enter your text in the input field or upload a file, 2) Select your desired hash algorithm (SHA-256 recommended), 3) Click 'Generate Hash'. The hash will appear instantly in the output field. You can then copy it to clipboard or download the result.

What are hashes used for?

Hashes are used for: 1) Password storage (hashing passwords before storing), 2) Data integrity verification (checking if files were modified), 3) Digital signatures and certificates, 4) Blockchain and cryptocurrency, 5) File deduplication, 6) Checksums for downloads, and 7) Creating unique identifiers for data.

Can I hash files with this tool?

Yes! You can upload text files, JSON, CSV, log files, and other text-based formats up to 10MB in size. Click the 'Upload' button, select your file, and the tool will automatically hash its contents using your selected algorithm.

Is SHA-1 still secure?

No, SHA-1 is no longer considered secure for cryptographic purposes due to collision vulnerabilities. It's included in this tool for legacy compatibility and verification of existing SHA-1 hashes. For any new security applications, use SHA-256 or higher.

Can you reverse a hash to get the original text?

No, hash functions are designed to be one-way. You cannot reverse a hash to recover the original input. This is why hashes are secure for password storage - even if someone obtains the hash, they cannot determine the original password (unless they use brute-force or dictionary attacks on weak passwords).

Is my data secure when using this tool?

Yes! All hash generation is performed locally in your browser using JavaScript. Your text and files are never uploaded to our servers or transmitted anywhere. The processing happens entirely on your device, ensuring complete privacy and security.