- What is SHA-256?
- SHA-256 is a cryptographic hash function that generates a fixed-size 256-bit (32-byte) hash value. It's part of the SHA-2 family and is widely used in security applications and protocols.
- Is SHA-256 secure?
- Yes, SHA-256 is considered cryptographically secure. It's widely used in blockchain technology, digital signatures, and password hashing when combined with proper salt.
- Can SHA-256 hashes be reversed?
- No, SHA-256 is a one-way hash function. It's mathematically impossible to reverse a SHA-256 hash back to its original input. This is what makes it useful for password storage and verification.
- Why use SHA-256?
- SHA-256 is used for its strong security properties, fixed output size, and the fact that even a small change in input produces a completely different hash. It's essential in blockchain, digital signatures, and file integrity verification.
- Is this tool secure?
- Yes, all hash calculations are performed locally in your browser. Your data never leaves your device, ensuring complete privacy and security.