Hash Generator

A hash generator turns text or a file into a fixed-length fingerprint, or checksum, using an algorithm such as SHA-256. This free tool calculates MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384 and SHA-512 at the same time in your browser and can compare the result with an expected checksum to verify a download. Files are read locally and never uploaded.

Free, no signup. Runs entirely in your browser; files and text are not uploaded.

How to use the Hash Generator

  1. Choose Text or File.
  2. Type or paste text, or click Choose file (or drag a file onto the box).
  3. Read the MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384 and SHA-512 hashes and click Copy next to the one you need.
  4. Optionally paste an expected checksum into the verify box to confirm it matches.

Features

  • MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-384 and SHA-512 calculated together
  • SHA hashes via the browser’s Web Crypto API; MD5 via a built-in RFC 1321 implementation
  • Hash text (UTF-8) or any file type with drag and drop
  • Checksum verification that tells you which algorithm matches
  • Lowercase or uppercase hexadecimal output
  • One-click copy for each hash

Frequently asked questions

Is MD5 or SHA-1 still safe to use?

Not for security. Practical collision attacks exist for both, so use them only to spot accidental file corruption or to match legacy checksums. Use SHA-256 or SHA-512 for integrity checks that must resist tampering, and a dedicated algorithm such as bcrypt or Argon2 for passwords.

Can a hash be reversed to get the original text?

No. Hash functions are one-way. Short or common inputs can sometimes be found by guessing and comparing hashes, which is why passwords should never be stored as plain MD5 or SHA hashes.

How do I verify a downloaded file’s checksum?

Choose File, select or drop the download, then paste the checksum published by the vendor into the verify box. The tool reports a match and the algorithm, or no match if the file differs.

Why is my hash different from another tool’s?

The input is almost always different: a trailing space or line break, a different text encoding, or hashing text instead of the file. This tool hashes text as UTF-8 exactly as typed. Upper or lower case hex does not change the value.

Related tools

  • Password Generator – Create strong random passwords with crypto-secure randomness, entropy meter and bulk output
  • Base64 Encoder – Encode text or files to Base64 and decode it back, with UTF-8 and URL-safe support
  • JWT Decoder – Decode JWT header, payload and claims with expiry status – signatures are not verified
  • UUID Generator – Generate secure random v4, time-ordered v7 or v1 UUIDs in bulk and validate them

Built and reviewed by Naqash Thaheem, Technical Project Manager. Last reviewed 2026-09-24.