SHA Hash Generator (SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512)
Generate SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384 and SHA-512 hashes of any text or file — computed locally in your browser with the Web Crypto API.
Hashes for integrity checks
A cryptographic hash is a fixed-length fingerprint of data: change one byte and the hash changes completely. The classic use is verifying downloads — hash the file you received and compare against the checksum the publisher lists. Hashing runs locally via your browser's Web Crypto API, so files never upload anywhere.
Choosing an algorithm: SHA-256 is today's standard; SHA-512 is its bigger sibling; SHA-1 is broken for security purposes (collisions exist) and survives only for legacy compatibility. MD5 isn't offered because browsers' crypto API rightly dropped it — if a site lists only MD5 checksums, treat them as an integrity hint, not security.
Frequently asked questions
Can a hash be decrypted back to the original?
No — hashing is one-way by design. The only way 'back' is guessing inputs and comparing hashes, which is why weak passwords are crackable despite hashing.
Why no MD5?
The Web Crypto API doesn't implement MD5 because it's cryptographically broken. For file integrity against accidental corruption it still technically works, but SHA-256 is the modern default everywhere.