Developer Utilities
Hash Generator
Hashing turns any text or file into a fixed-length string of characters, useful for verifying a file wasn't corrupted or tampered with during a download, generating cache keys, or checking that two pieces of data are identical without comparing them directly. This free hash generator computes MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-512 hashes simultaneously from either typed text or an uploaded file, using your browser's built-in Web Crypto API for the SHA family. It's a common way to verify a file checksum against a value published by a software vendor, or to generate a quick hash for a script — all without uploading your file anywhere.
Processed entirely in your browser — your files are never uploaded anywhere.
How to use this tool
- Choose Hash text or Hash file.
- Type text, or drop a file — hashes are calculated automatically.
- Copy any of the four hash values.
Frequently asked questions
- Is MD5 or SHA-1 safe to use?
- Both are considered cryptographically broken for security purposes (like password storage) but remain fine for non-security uses like checksums or detecting accidental file changes. Prefer SHA-256 or SHA-512 for anything security-sensitive.
- How large a file can I hash?
- Since hashing happens in your browser, the limit is your device's available memory rather than an upload cap — but very large files may take a few seconds to process.
- How do I verify a file checksum?
- Hash the downloaded file with this tool and compare the resulting hash against the checksum published by the source you downloaded it from — if they match exactly, the file wasn't corrupted or altered.
- Which hash algorithm should I use?
- SHA-256 is a solid general-purpose default for checksums today. MD5 and SHA-1 are still common for legacy compatibility and non-security checksums, but shouldn't be relied on for anything security-critical.
- Is my file uploaded to a server for hashing?
- No — hashing happens entirely in your browser using the Web Crypto API (for SHA) and a local JavaScript implementation (for MD5). Your file is never transmitted anywhere.