Verify downloaded files
Generate a checksum for a local file and compare it with a published hash.
About MD5 / SHA-256 Hash Generator
Hash Generator calculates MD5 and SHA-256 digest values from the text you enter.
Common use cases
Compare data revisions
Hash text or files to see whether content has changed between versions.
Create development test values
Generate SHA-family digests for integration tests, examples or debugging.
How it works
1
The browser reads the selected text or file as bytes.
2
A cryptographic hash algorithm processes those bytes into a fixed-length digest.
3
The hexadecimal digest is displayed for copying or comparison.
Privacy & file handling
Hashing runs locally
Supported text and files are hashed in the browser. The source content does not need to be uploaded to Zavilo merely to calculate a digest.
Limitations and important notes
- A hash is one-way and cannot be used to recover the original content.
- Matching hashes are useful for integrity checks but do not by themselves prove who created or distributed a file.
- Older algorithms such as MD5 or SHA-1 should not be treated as collision-resistant for modern security decisions.
Common hash choices
| Feature | Digest size | Use |
|---|---|---|
| SHA-256 | 256 bits | General integrity checks and modern defaults |
| SHA-512 | 512 bits | Longer digest with strong modern security margin |
| MD5 / SHA-1 | Shorter legacy digests | Compatibility only; not recommended for collision-resistant security |
How to use MD5 / SHA-256 Hash Generator
- 1
Enter the text to hash.
- 2
Click Generate.
- 3
Copy the MD5 or SHA-256 result.
Tips for better results
- Hash functions are one-way digests, not encryption.
- Use SHA-256 when you need a stronger modern digest than MD5.
Frequently asked questions
Can a hash be decoded back to the original text?
No. Cryptographic hashes are designed as one-way digest functions.