Hash Generator & Text Encryptor
Free hash generator and text encryptor. Generate SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512 hashes or encrypt/decrypt with AES-256.
SHA-256 (Secure Hash Algorithm 256-bit)
How it works:
SHA-256 divides input into 512-bit blocks and processes each through 64 rounds of cryptographic operations. It uses 8 working variables and 64 constants to mix the data thoroughly. The algorithm applies logical functions (AND, OR, XOR, NOT), bit rotations, and modular addition to create a 256-bit hash that's practically impossible to reverse.
✓ Recommended: Widely used in blockchain (Bitcoin), SSL/TLS certificates, password storage, and digital signatures. No known practical attacks.
What is Hashing?
Hashing is a one-way cryptographic function that converts input data into a fixed-size string (hash). Hashes are unique fingerprints - even a tiny change in input produces a completely different hash. Hash functions are irreversible, meaning you cannot get the original data back from the hash. This makes them perfect for password storage, file integrity verification, and digital signatures.
What is Encryption?
Encryption is a two-way process that transforms readable data (plaintext) into unreadable format (ciphertext) using a secret key. Unlike hashing, encryption is reversible - you can decrypt the ciphertext back to plaintext using the same key. Our tool uses AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), a widely-trusted encryption algorithm used by governments and organizations worldwide.
Why Use Our Hash & Encryption Tool?
- ✓100% free with unlimited hash generation and encryption operations: free with unlimited hash generation and encryption operations
- ✓Multiple hash algorithms: SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512 for different security needs
- ✓AES encryption/decryption with custom secret key for secure data protection: encryption/decryption with custom secret key for secure data protection
- ✓Real-time hash generation and encryption - instant results: time hash generation and encryption - instant results
- ✓All processing happens in your browser - no data sent to servers: no data sent to servers
- ✓One-click copy for all hash values and encrypted/decrypted text: copy for all hash values and encrypted/decrypted text
How to Use
Hashing (One-way):
- Enter your text in the input field
- Click "Generate Hashes" button
- View SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-512 hashes
- Copy any hash value to clipboard
Note: Hashing is irreversible - you cannot get original text from hash
Encryption/Decryption (Two-way):
- Enter your text and a secret key
- Click "Encrypt Text" to encrypt or "Decrypt Text" to decrypt
- View the encrypted/decrypted result
- Save your secret key - you need it to decrypt later
Important: Keep your secret key safe! Without it, encrypted data cannot be recovered.
Common Use Cases
- •Password Storage: Hash passwords before storing in databases (never store plain passwords)
- •File Integrity: Verify downloaded files haven't been tampered with using hash checksums
- •Data Encryption: Protect sensitive information like API keys, personal data with AES encryption
- •Digital Signatures: Create unique identifiers for documents and transactions
- •Blockchain: Hash functions are fundamental to cryptocurrency and blockchain technology
- •Message Encryption: Securely encrypt messages that only recipients with the key can read
Understanding Hash Algorithms
SHA-1 (160-bit)
SHA-1 (160-bit): Older algorithm, faster but less secure. Still used for checksums and git commits. Not recommended for security-critical applications.
SHA-256 (256-bit)
SHA-256 (256-bit): Part of SHA-2 family, widely used and considered secure. Standard for Bitcoin and many security applications. Recommended for most use cases.
SHA-512 (512-bit)
SHA-512 (512-bit): Longer hash provides extra security margin. Used for high-security applications and digital signatures. More secure but slower than SHA-256.
AES Encryption
AES Encryption: Advanced Encryption Standard used by US government. Symmetric encryption (same key for encrypt/decrypt). Industry standard for data protection.
Hashing vs Encryption - What's the Difference?
Hashing
Hashing: One-way function, irreversible, always produces same output for same input, used for verification and integrity checks, no key needed.
Encryption
Encryption: Two-way function, reversible with key, produces different output each time (with salt/IV), used for data protection, requires secret key.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I decrypt a hash back to original text?
No, hashing is a one-way function and cannot be reversed. This is by design - hashes are meant to verify data, not recover it. If you need to recover original data, use encryption instead of hashing.
What's the difference between SHA-256 and SHA-512?
SHA-512 produces a longer hash (512 bits vs 256 bits) and is theoretically more secure, but SHA-256 is sufficient for most applications and is faster. SHA-256 is more commonly used and is the standard for Bitcoin. Use SHA-512 only if you need the extra security margin.
Is my encryption key stored anywhere?
No! Your encryption key is never stored or sent anywhere. All encryption and decryption happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Make sure to save your key somewhere safe - if you lose it, your encrypted data cannot be recovered.
Can someone crack my encrypted text without the key?
AES-256 encryption with a strong key is virtually unbreakable with current technology. However, the security depends on your key strength. Use a long, random key (at least 16 characters) with mixed characters. Avoid simple passwords like '123456' or 'password'.
Should I use hashing or encryption for passwords?
Always use hashing (with salt) for passwords, never encryption! Hashing is one-way so even if your database is compromised, passwords cannot be recovered. When users log in, you hash their input and compare it to the stored hash. Encryption is for data you need to decrypt later.
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