What is a SHA-256 Hash: How It Works and Uses
Learn what the SHA-256 hash is, how it works, where it is used (integrity, passwords, blockchain) and how to generate it for free.
SHA-256 is a cryptographic function that turns any text into a fixed 64-character hexadecimal string. It cannot be reversed, so it is used to verify data integrity and store passwords securely.
1 What a hash is
A hash is the output of a function that turns data of any size into a fixed-size fingerprint. The same data always produces the same hash, but the original data cannot be recovered from it.
2 Features of SHA-256
It produces 64 characters (256 bits). It is collision-resistant: finding two distinct inputs with the same hash is computationally infeasible.
3 Main uses
It is used to verify file integrity, store passwords, in digital signatures and in blockchain (like Bitcoin).
4 Generate your hash
With the SHA-256 generator you enter your text and instantly get its hash. You also have the MD5 generator for other uses.
Try it with our free tool
SHA-256 Hash Generator
Use the tool