Hash Generator
Generate MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256 and SHA-512 hashes from any text. All four algorithms calculated simultaneously with copy buttons
What's a Hash?
A hash function takes any input (text, file, anything) and produces a fixed-size string output. Same input always produces the same hash; different inputs produce different hashes. Common hash sizes: MD5 (128 bits, 32 hex chars), SHA-1 (160 bits, 40 hex chars), SHA-256 (256 bits, 64 hex chars), SHA-512 (512 bits, 128 hex chars).
Uses: file integrity checking (hash of downloaded file should match published hash), password storage (hash with salt, never the actual password), data deduplication (same content = same hash), cryptographic signatures, blockchain. SHA-256 is the modern standard for general use; SHA-1 and MD5 are deprecated for security purposes (collisions can be engineered).
Common Hash Algorithms
| Algorithm | Output Size | Status |
|---|---|---|
| MD5 | 128 bit (32 hex) | Broken, file checksums only |
| SHA-1 | 160 bit (40 hex) | Deprecated for security |
| SHA-256 | 256 bit (64 hex) | Standard, recommended |
| SHA-512 | 512 bit (128 hex) | Highest security |
| SHA-3 | Variable | Modern alternative |
| BLAKE2 | Variable | Faster than SHA, secure |
| Argon2 | Variable | Password hashing winner |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reverse a hash to get the input?
No - hash functions are one-way. Reversing requires either the input itself or brute-forcing all possible inputs. For weak inputs (short passwords, common phrases), rainbow tables or dictionary attacks find the input quickly. For random/long inputs, reversal is computationally infeasible.
Should I use MD5 for passwords?
No - MD5 is broken for cryptographic purposes. Use Argon2 (preferred), bcrypt, or scrypt for password hashing. These are slow by design, making brute force impractical. SHA-256 is fine for non-password integrity checking.
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