Hash Functions for Data Integrity
Learn how to use hash functions (MD5, SHA-256) to verify file integrity and detect data corruption or tampering.
file checksummd5 checksumsha256 checksumverify file integrityhash verification
Hash functions create unique fingerprints for data, allowing you to verify files haven't been modified or corrupted.
How Checksums Work
Hash the original file and store the hash. Later, hash the file again and compare. Matching hashes confirm the file is unchanged.
Choosing an Algorithm
SHA-256 is recommended for security-sensitive verification. MD5 is faster but has known vulnerabilities and should be avoided for security purposes.
Common Use Cases
Software downloads, backup verification, detecting file tampering, and database record integrity checks all use hash-based verification.
Summary
Generate hashes for your data with our free Hash Generator tool.