About the Hash Generator (MD5, SHA)
A cryptographic hash function turns any input into a fixed-length fingerprint. Even a one-character change produces a completely different hash, which makes hashes perfect for verifying file integrity, detecting changes, creating cache keys and comparing data without revealing it.
The Hash Generator computes MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384 and SHA-512 at the same time for any text or file. SHA hashes use your browser's native Web Crypto API for speed and accuracy, and files of any type are hashed locally, so you can verify large downloads against published checksums without uploading them. Output can be shown in lowercase or uppercase hexadecimal, or in Base64.
Examples: what hashes look like and how to use them
The MD5 hash of the word hello is:
5d41402abc4b2a76b9719d911017c592Change just the first letter to a capital, Hello, and the result is completely different: 8b1a9953c4611296a827abf8c47804d7. The SHA-256 hash of hello is 64 characters long:
2cf24dba5fb0a30e26e83b2ac5b9e29e1b161e5c1fa7425e73043362938b9824How to verify a download
- Find the checksum the publisher lists next to the download, usually SHA-256.
- Drop the downloaded file into the hash generator.
- Compare the SHA-256 result with the published value. If they match exactly, the file is complete and unchanged.
Which algorithm to choose
- SHA-256: the standard choice for file checks and integrity today.
- MD5 and SHA-1: fine for spotting accidental changes and for old systems that require them, but not for security, because collisions can be created deliberately.
- Passwords: never store them with a plain hash. Use a dedicated password hashing method such as bcrypt or Argon2 in your application.
How to use the Hash Generator (MD5, SHA)
- Choose Text or File.
- Type text or drop a file to hash.
- Choose uppercase or Base64 output if needed.
- Copy the hash you need.
Frequently asked questions
Can a hash be reversed or decrypted?
No. Hash functions are one-way. Websites that claim to "decrypt" MD5 simply look up hashes of common words in huge tables.
Is MD5 secure?
MD5 and SHA-1 are broken for security purposes such as signatures and passwords. Use SHA-256 or stronger, and use dedicated algorithms like bcrypt or Argon2 for passwords.
How do I verify a downloaded file?
Switch to File mode, drop the downloaded file, and compare the SHA-256 value with the checksum published by the software provider.
