MD5 vs SHA-256
Compare MD5 and SHA-256 hash algorithms. Understand security differences, performance, and when to use each algorithm.
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MD5 and SHA-256 are both hash algorithms but have significant security and performance differences.
MD5 (Message Digest 5)
128-bit hash, faster computation. Considered cryptographically broken - collisions can be generated. Use only for non-security checksums.
SHA-256
256-bit hash, part of SHA-2 family. Currently secure with no known practical attacks. Recommended for security-sensitive applications.
When to Use Each
MD5: Legacy systems, quick checksums for data integrity (non-security). SHA-256: Password hashing (with salt), digital signatures, certificates.
Summary
Generate both MD5 and SHA-256 hashes with our Hash Generator to compare outputs.