Hash Generator

What are hashes for?

A hash turns any input into a fixed-length fingerprint. The same input always produces the same hash, but you can't reverse it back to the original. Developers use hashes to verify file integrity (checksums), index data, and store password representations. SHA-256 is the modern default; SHA-1 is shown for legacy compatibility only (it's no longer collision-resistant).

Which algorithm should you use?

• SHA-256: the modern standard — strong, fast, and used everywhere from checksums to blockchains. Use this unless you have a specific reason not to.
• SHA-512: a longer digest from the same family; useful where an even larger fingerprint is desired.
• SHA-1: legacy only. It's been broken for collision resistance, so never use it for new security work — it's here for compatibility with old systems.

Everyday uses

• File integrity: compare a download's hash to the published value to confirm it wasn't corrupted or tampered with.
• Change detection: hash content to tell instantly whether two files or strings are identical.
• Data indexing: use a hash as a compact, fixed-length key.

Want the concept explained from scratch? Read our guide on what a SHA-256 hash is and what it's used for.

Computed privately in your browser

Hashing here uses the browser's built-in Web Crypto API, so whatever you enter is processed on your device and never uploaded. That makes it safe to hash sensitive strings, and it works offline once the page has loaded.