Hash Generator

Create MD5 and SHA hash values from text or a file

Use this free hash generator as a hash creator for MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384, and SHA-512. Type text or drop a file, then copy the hash value as hex or Base64. For MD5-only checksums, see the MD5 Hash Generator. Need a keyed signature? Use the HMAC generator. Everything runs in your browser.

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Drop a file here or to hash its bytes

Output

Need a keyed signature? Use the HMAC generator.

Your hash value will appear here

Related hash tools

Hash Generator Guide

What is a hash generator?

A hash generator (sometimes called a hash creator) runs a cryptographic hash function on input and returns a hash value. The digest is a fingerprint of the input: same bytes in, same hex out. Change one character and the entire digest changes.

MD5 vs SHA-256 vs SHA-512

  • MD5: 128-bit, 32 hex characters. Fast and still used for non-security checksums. Collision-prone. Do not use it for passwords or certificates.
  • SHA-1: 160-bit. Legacy. Prefer SHA-256 for new work.
  • SHA-256: 256-bit, 64 hex characters. The usual default for file integrity and fingerprints.
  • SHA-384 / SHA-512: Longer SHA-2 variants when a policy asks for a larger digest.

Hash creator vs HMAC

This tool hashes public input. Anyone can recompute the same digest. HMAC adds a secret key so the digest also authenticates who produced it. Webhooks and API signatures almost always want HMAC, not a plain SHA-256 of the body.

Text vs file hashing

Text is encoded as UTF-8 before hashing. Dropping a file hashes the raw bytes, which is what you want for download checksums. Empty input is still hashed: empty MD5 is d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e.

Hash Generator FAQ

What is a hash generator?

A hash generator turns text or a file into a fixed-length digest with MD5 or SHA. Same input, same hash value.

What is a hash value?

The digest itself. SHA-256 is 64 hex characters. MD5 is 32. People also call it a checksum or fingerprint.

Which algorithm should I use?

Prefer SHA-256 or SHA-512 for new checksums. Use MD5 when a legacy system already expects it. Never store passwords as a plain hash.

Is this hash generator free?

Yes. SHA family uses Web Crypto in your browser. MD5 is computed locally. Nothing is uploaded.

What is the difference between a hash and HMAC?

A hash has no secret. HMAC requires a key. Use the HMAC generator for API signatures.