Hash Generator

Generate MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-512 hashes from any text. Uses Web Crypto API.

About Hash Functions

A hash function takes input data of any size and produces a fixed-size output (the "hash" or "digest"). Key properties:

  • Deterministic: Same input always gives same hash
  • One-way: Cannot reverse the hash to get the input
  • Avalanche effect: Tiny input change = completely different hash
  • Collision-resistant: Hard to find two inputs with the same hash

Which to use?

  • MD5: Fast but broken — use only for checksums, NOT security
  • SHA-1: Deprecated for security — use only for legacy systems
  • SHA-256: Recommended for most use cases (passwords, signatures)
  • SHA-512: Higher security, slightly slower