SHA-256, SHA-512 and Common Hashing Algorithms Explained
Understand common SHA hash algorithms, checksum use cases and why fast hashes are not password storage algorithms.
By Lumarc Studio · Updated 2026-07-29
A hash function turns input data into a fixed-size digest. Small input changes produce very different output, which makes hashes useful for checksums, integrity checks and content-addressed identifiers.
hellowith SHA-256 becomes:
2cf24dba5fb0a30e26e83b2ac5b9e29e1b161e5c1fa7425e73043362938b9824Use the Hash Generator to generate SHA-256, SHA-384 or SHA-512 digests locally in your browser.
SHA-256 vs SHA-512
SHA-256 produces a 256-bit digest commonly shown as 64 hexadecimal characters. SHA-512 produces a 512-bit digest shown as 128 hexadecimal characters. Both are part of the SHA-2 family and are widely supported.
The right choice depends on the system you are integrating with. If an API, manifest or checksum file expects SHA-256, use SHA-256. Do not switch algorithms casually because the digest format is part of the contract.
Hashes Are Not Encryption
Hashing is one-way in normal use. Encryption is reversible with the right key. A hash digest cannot be decrypted back into the original input.
Password Warning
Fast hashes such as SHA-256 and SHA-512 are not suitable for password storage by themselves. Password storage needs slow, salted password hashing algorithms such as Argon2, bcrypt or scrypt. The Secure Password Generator can create a password, but storing that password safely is a separate server-side responsibility.