What is this tool?
A cryptographic hash function converts any input into a fixed-size string of characters. SHA-256 produces a 64-character hex string regardless of input length. Hashes are one-way — you can't reverse them to find the original input.
Why use this tool?
Hashes are used for password storage, file integrity checks, digital signatures, and blockchain. This tool computes SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-512 using your browser's Web Crypto API — no data leaves your device.
Tips & Best Practices
- SHA-256 is the most widely used for security
- Compare hashes to verify file integrity
- Never use MD5 or SHA-1 for passwords (they're broken)
- Same input always produces the same hash
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SHA-256 secure?
Yes. As of 2026, no practical attack can reverse SHA-256 or find collisions. It's used in Bitcoin, SSL certificates, and government standards.
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