Hash generator
Compute an MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384, or SHA-512 hash of any text.
The hash generator computes a hex-encoded hash digest of any text you enter, using MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384, or SHA-512 — MD5 runs via a compact built-in implementation, and the SHA family uses the browser's own Web Crypto API, all entirely client-side.
How to use
- Type or paste the text you want to hash.
- Pick an algorithm — MD5 and SHA-1 are common for legacy compatibility checks; SHA-256 or higher for anything security-sensitive.
- Click "Generate hash" and copy the result.
Common use scenarios
- Verifying that a downloaded file matches a published checksum.
- Generating a quick hash to compare two pieces of text for equality.
- Producing a legacy MD5/SHA-1 checksum for compatibility with older systems.
- Getting a SHA-256 or stronger digest for a security-related integration.
✓Content & verification reviewed: 2026-08-27
How we verify Hash generator
How to confirm the hash you get matches what you expect.
The same input always produces the same hash
Hashing is deterministic — hashing identical text twice always gives the identical digest, so you can use it to check whether two pieces of text are exactly the same without comparing them character by character.
A single different character changes the entire hash
Hash functions are designed so that even a one-character difference (including whitespace) produces a completely different-looking digest — this makes hashes good for detecting any change, but useless for spotting what changed.
MD5 and SHA-1 are not secure against a determined attacker
Both have known collision weaknesses and are unsuitable for security-critical use (like verifying a certificate or storing a password) — they're included here for compatibility checks and casual checksums only.
Before you rely on the result
- You've picked SHA-256 or stronger if the result needs to be genuinely tamper-resistant.
- You're comparing the full hash string exactly, not just a visual glance.
- You understand MD5/SHA-1 here are for compatibility/checksums, not security.
- You've copied the whole hash — a truncated copy won't match anything.
Who this is for
- Anyone verifying a downloaded file against a published checksum.
- Developers comparing two pieces of text or data for equality.
- People needing a legacy MD5/SHA-1 hash for an older system.
- Anyone needing a SHA-256+ digest for a security-related task.
Real-world examples
Verifying a download
Someone downloads a file and hashes it locally to compare against the checksum published by the file's source, confirming it wasn't corrupted or tampered with.
Comparing two texts for equality
A developer hashes two large blocks of text to quickly check whether they're identical, instead of diffing them character by character.
Legacy checksum generation
Someone integrating with an older system that still expects an MD5 or SHA-1 checksum generates one directly in the browser.
Limitations
- MD5 and SHA-1 are not considered cryptographically secure for security-critical purposes (e.g. password storage) — they're included here for compatibility and checksum use only.
Frequently asked questions
Is MD5 safe to use?
Not for security-critical purposes — MD5 has known collision vulnerabilities. It's fine here for checksums and legacy compatibility, not for things like password storage or digital signatures.
Why does my hash look completely different from someone else's for "the same" text?
Any difference — including invisible whitespace, line endings, or capitalization — produces a totally different hash. Double-check the input text matches exactly.
Does this upload my text anywhere?
No — hashing happens entirely in your browser, using a local MD5 implementation or the browser's built-in Web Crypto API for SHA hashes.
Which algorithm should I use?
SHA-256 is a solid modern default. Use MD5 or SHA-1 only when a specific legacy system or checksum format requires them.
🔒 Runs in your browser — nothing is uploaded. Results are for reference only; see the disclaimer. Last updated: 2026-08-27
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