Hash Generator for MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256 and SHA-512
Our hash generator creates MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384 and SHA-512 hashes from any text or file. Use it to get a SHA256 hash, check a download against its published checksum or compare two pieces of data. Type your text or pick a file to start.
What a Hash Is
A hash is a fixed length fingerprint of data. A hash function reads any input, from one letter to a large file, and returns a string of hex digits that is always the same length for that algorithm. Change a single character and the result changes completely.
Hashing works one way only. You cannot turn a hash back into the original text, which is why it is used to check data rather than to hide it. The same input always gives the same output, on any computer.
How to Use the Hash Generator
- Type or paste your text, or pick a file instead.
- Read all five hashes at once and copy the one you need.
- Paste a known hash into the compare box to check for a match.
The matching algorithm lights up green when the hashes agree. You can switch to uppercase hex or trim spaces at the start and end of your text. Even one trailing space or line break changes every hash, so that option prevents false mismatches.
Hash Examples
These values come from the tool for the text hello world in lowercase. There is no line break at the end. Type it yourself and the same SHA256 hash appears.
| Algorithm | Hash of "hello world" |
| MD5 | 5eb63bbbe01eeed093cb22bb8f5acdc3 |
| SHA-1 | 2aae6c35c94fcfb415dbe95f408b9ce91ee846ed |
| SHA-256 | b94d27b9934d3e08a52e52d7da7dabfac484efe37a5380ee9088f7ace2efcde9 |
Add a capital H and the SHA256 hash becomes something entirely different. That sensitivity is what makes hashes useful for spotting changes. An empty input has a hash too, and for MD5 it is d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e.
The Algorithms Compared
| Algorithm | Output length | Safe for security? |
| MD5 | 128 bits, 32 hex digits | No, collisions are easy |
| SHA-1 | 160 bits, 40 hex digits | No, collisions shown in 2017 |
| SHA-256 | 256 bits, 64 hex digits | Yes |
| SHA-384 | 384 bits, 96 hex digits | Yes |
| SHA-512 | 512 bits, 128 hex digits | Yes |
MD5 and SHA-1 still work as quick checks for accidental damage. They should not protect anything an attacker might want to fake. For new work, a SHA256 hash is the usual choice.
Checking a File Checksum
Many software sites publish a checksum next to each download. Pick the downloaded file in the tool and paste the published value into the compare box. If it matches, the file arrived complete and unchanged.
A file checksum only proves the file matches what the site published. If the site itself was hacked, both the file and the hash could be fake. For high value downloads, also check the signature that some projects provide.
Hashing and Passwords
Websites should never store your password as plain text. They store a hash instead and compare hashes when you log in. A plain MD5 hash or even a plain SHA256 hash is too fast for this, because attackers can try billions of guesses a second.
Proper password storage uses slow, salted methods such as bcrypt, scrypt or Argon2. Do not paste real passwords into any online tool. Use the Password Generator to create strong ones instead.
Other Common Uses
- Git names every commit with a hash.
- Blockchains such as Bitcoin chain blocks together with SHA-256.
- Databases and caches use hashes to find duplicate files quickly.
- APIs sign requests with a hash so the server can spot tampering.
Why Use Our Hash Generator
It shows five algorithms side by side for text or files, with a built in compare box. Hashing happens in your browser, so your text and files never leave your device. Type something and get your hashes now.
Frequently asked questions
Is this hash generator free?
Yes, it is free with no sign up, and files can be up to 200 MB.
Can a hash be reversed?
No, a hash function works one way, though weak passwords can be guessed.
How long is a SHA256 hash?
It has 64 hex characters, which is 256 bits.
Is an MD5 hash still safe?
It is fine for spotting accidental changes but not for security.
Why do two tools give different hashes for my text?
Usually a hidden space, line break or text encoding differs.
How do I verify a downloaded file?
Pick the file, paste the published hash and look for a match.
Are my files uploaded?
No, the hash generator runs entirely in your browser.
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