Daily Term: Hashing

Hashing

Hashing transforms data into a fixed-length value (hash) using a mathematical function, often for security or data integrity. For example, passwords are hashed with algorithms like SHA-256 and stored, so even if the database is compromised, the original password isn’t exposed. Hashing ensures data integrity (e.g., verifying file downloads) but isn’t reversible, and weak hashing algorithms can be vulnerable to attacks like rainbow tables.

Date: 2025-07-13