🔨 Hash Generator

Generate MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512 hash values instantly

Input Text

0 characters

MD5

128-bit hash value

Hash will appear here...

SHA-1

160-bit hash value

Hash will appear here...

SHA-256

256-bit hash value (Recommended)

Hash will appear here...

SHA-512

512-bit hash value (Most Secure)

Hash will appear here...

💡 Quick Examples

What is a Hash Function?

A hash function is a mathematical algorithm that converts input data of any size into a fixed-size string of characters. The output, called a hash or digest, is unique to the input data.

Common Hash Algorithms

MD5 (Message Digest 5)

  • Output: 128-bit (32 hexadecimal characters)
  • Speed: Very fast
  • Security: ❌ Not secure - vulnerable to collisions
  • Use Case: Checksums only, not for security

SHA-1 (Secure Hash Algorithm 1)

  • Output: 160-bit (40 hexadecimal characters)
  • Speed: Fast
  • Security: ⚠️ Deprecated - collisions found
  • Use Case: Legacy systems only

SHA-256

  • Output: 256-bit (64 hexadecimal characters)
  • Speed: Fast
  • Security: ✅ Secure and recommended
  • Use Case: General purpose, file integrity, blockchain

SHA-512

  • Output: 512-bit (128 hexadecimal characters)
  • Speed: Moderate
  • Security: ✅ Most secure
  • Use Case: High-security applications

Common Use Cases

  • File Integrity: Verify downloads haven't been tampered with
  • Password Storage: Store hashed passwords (with salt)
  • Data Deduplication: Identify duplicate files
  • Digital Signatures: Verify authenticity
  • Blockchain: Mining and transaction verification
  • Checksums: Detect data corruption

Important Security Notes

⚠️ Security Warning

  • Hashing is NOT encryption - hashes cannot be reversed
  • Never use MD5 or SHA-1 for security purposes
  • Always use salt when hashing passwords
  • Use bcrypt, Argon2, or scrypt for password hashing

Hash Examples

Input: "Hello World"

  • MD5: b10a8db164e0754105b7a99be72e3fe5
  • SHA-256: a591a6d40bf420404a011733cfb7b190d62c65bf0bcda32b57b277d9ad9f146e

FAQ

Can hashes be reversed?

No, hash functions are one-way. You cannot decrypt a hash back to the original text. However, weak hashes like MD5 can be cracked using rainbow tables.

Why are different hash values different lengths?

Each algorithm produces a fixed-size output regardless of input size. MD5 always produces 128 bits, SHA-256 always produces 256 bits, etc.

Is hashing the same as encryption?

No. Encryption is reversible (you can decrypt), hashing is one-way (irreversible).

Which hash should I use?

For general purposes, use SHA-256. For maximum security, use SHA-512. Never use MD5 or SHA-1 for security.

Is this hash generator secure?

Yes, all hashing happens in your browser using the CryptoJS library. No data is sent to any server.