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Hashing algorithms are deterministic functions that map arbitrary input to fixed-size digests, used for integrity checks, authentication primitives, and indexing. They prioritize collision resistance, preimage resistance and speed depending on use-case. Choosing one involves trade-offs between security, performance and compatibility; deprecated algorithms (M…
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A hashing algorithm deterministically maps data of any length to a fixed-length hash value.
Hash functions grew from needs for fast lookup and integrity checking and later cryptographic security. The NIST Secure Hash Standard documents a standardized family of cryptographic hashes; the concept has no single decisive inventor.
An input passes through a one-way function to produce a digital fingerprint. Equal inputs produce the same value, while a small change should cause a large change. Hashing is not encryption: the input should not be recoverable, and security depends on the algorithm and its use, such as salting password hashes.
A fixed-size output provides a compact basis for comparing an input.
A collision occurs when different inputs share a hash; secure algorithms make this practically difficult.
Passwords use a salt and a deliberately slow password scheme rather than a fast general-purpose hash.
Hashing supports integrity checks, signatures, content addressing, and password storage. It does not by itself keep data secret; algorithm, salt, parameters, and comparison logic must fit the threat model.
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