SHA-256 Hash Generator

Generate secure SHA-256 hashes for text or files instantly. Supports HMAC (Keyed-Hash) and Batch processing.

Configuration

Input Text

SHA-256 Hash Result

Continue with Related Tools

MD5 Generator

Fast 128-bit hashes.

bcrypt Generator

Password hashing.

HMAC Generator

Keyed-hash authentication.

What is SHA-256?

SHA-256 (Secure Hash Algorithm 256-bit) is a cryptographic hash function that generates a 256-bit (32-byte) signature for a text or data file. It is a key component of modern security protocols, including TLS/SSL, PGP, SSH, and Bitcoin.

Unlike simpler algorithms like MD5, SHA-256 has no known collision attacks, making it suitable for high-security applications where data integrity is paramount.

Key Features

File Hashing

Upload any file to calculate its SHA-256 checksum instantly right in your browser.

HMAC Support

Generate keyed-hash message authentication codes using a secret key.

Batch Mode

Process multiple lines of text at once for bulk hashing tasks.

Verification

Built-in comparison tool to verify if your hash matches an expected value.

100% Private

Client-side processing only. Your passwords/files never leave your device.

Instant

Zero latency. Hashes are calculated in milliseconds as you type.

How to use this tool?

  1. Text or File: Toggle between Text Input mode or File Checksum mode using the switch.
  2. Configure: Enable HMAC Mode if you need to use a secret key, or Batch Mode for list processing.
  3. Results: The SHA-256 hash appears instantly. Use the Copy button to grab it.
  4. Verify: Click Compare and paste an expected hash to check if they match (useful for checking downloaded files).

Common Use Cases

Software Verification

Developers publish SHA-256 hashes of software releases. Users can verify their downloaded files perfectly match the original.

Digital Forensics

Law enforcement and security experts use SHA-256 to create digital fingerprints of evidence files to ensure chain of custody.

Blockchain Technology

SHA-256 is the core algorithm used in Bitcoin for Proof of Work and creating addresses.

Secure Communications

TLS/SSL certificates often use SHA-256 to sign digital certificates, ensuring the identity of websites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a SHA-256 Hash?
SHA-256 (Secure Hash Algorithm 256-bit) is a cryptographic hash function that produces a unique fixed-size 256-bit (32-byte) hash. It is part of the SHA-2 family designed by the NSA and is standard for high-security applications.
How do I verify a file checksum?
Switch to "File Checksum" mode, upload your file, and the tool will calculate its SHA-256 hash. You can then paste the expected hash into the "Compare" field to instantly verify if they match.
What is HMAC-SHA256?
HMAC (Hash-Based Message Authentication Code) uses the SHA-256 function along with a secret key. This provides both data integrity (ensuring data wasn't changed) and authenticity (ensuring who created it).
Is SHA-256 secure for passwords?
SHA-256 is secure from a cryptographic standpoint, but for password storage, it is recommended to use slow hashing algorithms like bcrypt or Argon2 to prevent brute-force attacks. SHA-256 is too fast for optimal password security without extensive salting.
Can I hash multiple lines at once?
Yes! Enable "Batch Mode" to process each line of your input independently. This is useful for hashing lists of emails, IDs, or strings in bulk.
Is the file hashing secure?
Absolutely. All processing happens locally in your web browser using JavaScript (CryptoJS). Your files are NOT uploaded to any server, ensuring complete privacy.
Is SHA-256 reversible?
No. SHA-256 is a one-way function. It is mathematically impossible to reverse the hash to get the original text.
What is the "Compare" feature?
The Compare feature allows you to paste a known hash (e.g., from a download site) to check against your generated result. It gives you a clear Pass/Fail indication.
Does file size affect performance?
Since hashing is done in the browser, very large files (e.g., >500MB) might take a few seconds or impact browser responsiveness depending on your device's speed.
Why are SHA-256 hashes 64 characters?
A SHA-256 hash is 256 bits long. When represented in Hexadecimal (base 16), each 4 bits is one character, resulting in exactly 64 characters (256 / 4 = 64).