Security · Website glossary

Hashing

Quick answer · What is Hashing?

The calculation of a fixed-size digest from input data using a hash function.

IN PRACTICE

Hashing: an example

A download publisher provides a cryptographic digest so a reader can check whether a file changed.

KEEP IN MIND

A plain fast hash is not a complete password-storage design; passwords need a purpose-built protected scheme.

Put the idea to work

Frequently asked questions

What is a practical example of Hashing?

A download publisher provides a cryptographic digest so a reader can check whether a file changed.

Is a plain fast hash a complete password-storage design?

A plain fast hash is not a complete password-storage design; passwords need a purpose-built protected scheme.

Which concepts should I read alongside Hashing?

Encryption: A transformation that makes readable data unintelligible without the appropriate cryptographic key.
Authentication: The process of checking that a person or system is who or what it claims to be.