SHA-256 hash generator

What a SHA-256 hash is

A hash turns any input into a fixed-length fingerprint. SHA-256 gives a 64-character hex string. The same input always gives the same hash, and even a one-letter change gives a completely different one.

How to generate a SHA-256 hash

Choose Text or File, keep SHA-256 selected, then type your text and click Generate or drop a file. Copy the hex digest when it appears. To check a download, compare it with the checksum the publisher lists.

Why generate hashes

Hashes show whether a download was corrupted or changed. They also help find duplicate files and serve as content fingerprints in caches and integrity checks.

Which algorithm to pick

SHA-256 is the safe default. SHA-384 and SHA-512 give longer digests. MD5 and SHA-1 are still fine as checksums, but don't use them for security.

Computed on your device

The SHA algorithms use the browser's built-in Web Crypto API, and MD5 runs as local JavaScript. Your text and files never leave the device.

Before you start

Input: *. Output: Digest. The settings appear before anything runs, so you can check them first. Your original file is never changed.

The value you enter is processed in your browser. Still test the output where it will be used. Clean formatting does not prove the data is safe or correct.

Keep the original until you have opened and checked the result. The work happens in this browser tab, so the size you can handle depends on your device's memory, your browser and the file itself.

How to use the SHA-256 hash generator

1. Choose Text or File input.
2. Pick the hash algorithm you need.
3. Enter text and click Generate, or drop a file to hash it.
4. Copy the hex digest.