Hash Generator
A hash generator creates fixed-size fingerprints from input data using cryptographic algorithms. This tool generates MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384, and SHA-512 hashes instantly, all processed locally in your browser for maximum privacy.
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How to Generate Hashes
- 1
Enter Your Text
Type or paste the text you want to hash into the input field.
- 2
Generate Hashes
Click "Generate Hashes" to compute all hash values simultaneously using multiple algorithms.
- 3
Copy the Hash You Need
Click the copy button next to any hash to copy it to your clipboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 hash). The same input always produces the same hash, but it's computationally infeasible to reverse the process or find two different inputs that produce the same hash.
Which hash algorithm should I use?
For security purposes, use SHA-256 or higher. MD5 and SHA-1 are considered cryptographically broken and should only be used for checksums or non-security applications. SHA-256 provides a good balance of security and performance for most modern applications.
Can I reverse a hash to get the original text?
No, hash functions are one-way operations. You cannot mathematically reverse a hash to get the original input. However, weak hashes of common passwords can be found using rainbow tables, which is why salting and using strong algorithms is important.
Why are MD5 and SHA-1 not secure?
MD5 and SHA-1 have known vulnerabilities that allow attackers to create collision attacks (finding two different inputs that produce the same hash). This makes them unsuitable for security applications like password storage or digital signatures.
Use Cases
Checksums: Verify file integrity. Hash before and after transfer; matching hashes mean the file is unchanged. MD5 is fine for non-security checksums.
Content addressing: Use hashes as content IDs (e.g. Git, IPFS). Same content always yields the same hash.
Deduplication: Detect duplicate files or records by comparing hashes before storing.
Digital signatures: Sign the hash of a message rather than the message itself. Use SHA-256 or stronger.
CLI Commands
$ echo -n "hello" | openssl dgst -sha256
$ md5sum file.txt
crypto.createHash('sha256').update('hello').digest('hex')
Algorithm Comparison
| Algorithm | Output | Security |
|---|---|---|
| MD5 | 128 bits | Broken, use for checksums only |
| SHA-1 | 160 bits | Deprecated for security |
| SHA-256 | 256 bits | Recommended for most uses |
| SHA-384/512 | 384/512 bits | Higher security margin |
Security Notes
Hashes are not for passwords. Use bcrypt, scrypt, or Argon2 for password storage. For HMAC or key derivation, use dedicated functions (e.g. HKDF). MD5 and SHA-1 have collision vulnerabilities; avoid them for signatures or integrity in security-sensitive contexts. Prefer SHA-256 or SHA-3.